Photo: Peter Baba

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic, sidelined since Christmas due to a left calf strain, may return to action sooner than expected. According to TNT’s sideline reporter Jared Greenberg, the Mavericks are optimistic Doncic will play before the All-Star break in mid-February.

Brad Townsend of The Dallas Morning News highlighted Greenberg’s report on X, adding context to the timeline. “The Mavs already had announced that Doncic won’t be re-evaluated until late January. The All-Star break is Feb. 14-16,” Townsend wrote.

Doncic’s absence has been a significant challenge for Dallas, who are fighting to stay competitive in the Western Conference standings. The Mavericks have relied on their supporting cast to navigate through this stretch without their franchise cornerstone as Kyrie Irving was also sidelined.

The Slovenian superstar is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 35.7 minutes per game this season.

Despite the setback, Doncic’s recovery timeline suggests the Mavericks are taking a cautious approach to ensure he returns at full strength. With the All-Star break just weeks away, his potential comeback could provide a much-needed boost for Dallas as they aim for playoff positioning.