Luka Doncic and Co. will be on the constant hunt for the latest Mavs’ injury updates after two of their stars exited their most recent game against the Blazers.
Mavs’ HC Jason Kidd played down both the incidents that occurred in the blowout victory that saw the Mavericks beat the Blazers, 126-97.
Lively and Williams Hit by Ankle Injuries in Portland Triumph
Picked 12th in the NBA Draft this season, Dereck Lively ll has been crucial for the Mavs’ success this year with his exceptional defensive and ball-grabbing attributes. Alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving who handle the offensive department, Lively has managed to offer defensive depth for the Mavs. The player was ruled out for the remainder of the game after an incident in the third quarter which saw the player go down with an ankle injury.
![Mavs Injury update](https://www.sportsknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Lively-3-usa-today-1024x683.jpg)
This wasn’t the only injury on the night for the Mavs’ who won their fixture in the first back-to-back against Portland.
In the last quarter of the game, front-court player Grant Williams also picked up an ankle injury which forced him out of the game and fans were to know what the Mavs injury update said.
![Grant Williams](https://www.sportsknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Williams-1-AP.jpeg-1024x683.jpg)
Apart from Lively who is maximized in an organized defensive structure, Williams’ is potent for the Mavs’ for his ability to viciously guard players in close range, man-to-man. The Mavs’ will hope that their injuries aren’t too serious considering their vital roles for the team.
While Lively averages 8.7 points and 7.6 rebounds on a nightly basis, Williams’ chips in with 8.6 points a night along with his defensive prowess.
Coach Kidd Labels Sprains “Mild” Amidst Uncertainty for Rematch
In the Mavs’ Injury Update, HC Jason Kidd helped relieve Mavs’ fans of their anxiety after he reported on the incidents after the game.
The coach revealed to the media that both the players were fine and that their ankle sprains were classified as “mild”. In a measure to give the players time to recover adequately, the HC registered both players as questionable for their rematch against the Blazers. These two pivotal players join other Maverick stars Dante Exum and Richaun Holmes who are also open to doubt for the rematch.
![Jason Kidd](https://www.sportsknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Kidd-1-USA-1024x683.jpg)
In the game against the Blazers, HC Jason Kidd’s frustration with the lack of communication within the group seemed to have been answered after the Mavs routed their opposition ruthlessly even after the team had a comfortable lead.
![Grant Williams](https://www.sportsknot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Williams-2-Getty-1024x683.jpg)
The Mavericks’ will hope to have Lively and Williams healthy at the earliest in order to gain back to back victories against the Blazers while also moving up in their conference standings.
What do you think of the Mavericks’ performance against the Blazers? How crucial will Williams’ and Lively’s absence be for the Mavs? We are eager to hear your thoughts and opinions so let us know in the comments below.