The Dallas Mavericks hold a 2-1 series lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder despite Luka Doncic dealing with a right knee sprain and left ankle soreness.
DALLAS — Luka Doncic, despite visibly struggling with injuries, spearheaded the Dallas Mavericks to a gritty 105-101 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 on Saturday, giving his team a crucial 2-1 series lead.
Doncic told reporters “everything” hurts after the game as he continues to battle through a lingering right knee sprain since the first round of the playoffs, gutted out 22 points and 15 rebounds, showcasing his unwavering determination to lead his team to victory. He entered the game on the injury report listed as questionable due to his knee sprain but also with left ankle soreness and faces the same circumstances entering Monday’s Game 4.
“I’m battling out there, man,” Doncic said. “I’m glad we got the win. I’m just trying to battle.”
Doncic’s physical limitations were evident throughout the game. In the final minute, he winced in pain after falling hard on his tailbone and tweaking his knee.
“On the last play, when I split two defenders, obviously nobody touched me,” Doncic said sarcastically. “I hurt my knee again, but I’m just trying to battle out there, man. We got a win. That’s all that matters.”
Fortunately, Doncic’s teammates rallied around him, delivering crucial contributions to secure the win. Kyrie Irving added 22 points and seven assists, while P.J. Washington continued his impressive display of making the Thunder pay with 27 points and six rebounds. Dereck Lively II also played a vital role, making 8-12 free throws, including going 4-4 in down the stretch with Oklahoma City turning to a “Hack-a-Lively” approach given his 52.6% free throw percentage (including playoffs).
The Mavericks’ physical play and rebounding advantage proved decisive, allowing them to overcome Doncic’s limited mobility. However, regardless of how the game is being officiated, the team is prepared to adapt to a finesse approach as well.
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