Luka Doncic Injury: Mavs Star Leaves Thursday After Another Ankle Aggravation

The Mavericks ruled out All-Star starter Luka Doncic after he suffered an apparent left ankle inversion sprain in the first quarter on Thursday night. 

Because of his repeated left ankle sprains, Doncic should be able to return after a short absence, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.

Doncic's left ankle injury history over the last several seasons is extensive:

• Doncic suffered multiple sprains in the 2020 bubble playoffs, including a significant low ankle inversion sprain in Game 3, but didn't miss any games

• He missed 15 of 23 games over six weeks after he suffered a high-ankle and MCL sprain on Nov. 15, 2021 and aggravated the sprain on December 2 after returning too quickly

• Doncic has missed five games this season with left ankle soreness and suffered sprains on October 25, December 29, and January 5, among other minor bumps and bruises

The 23-year-old led the NBA in scoring entering tonight at 33.8 points per game along with 9.1 rebounds and 8.6 assists on a career-best 49.8% shooting in 44 games. 

The Mavericks, 26-24, held on to beat the Suns and will play the Jazz on Saturday and the Pistons on Monday. 

With luck and limited swelling, Doncic could be back as soon as Monday.