The star guard had been absent in the previous game, a home defeat to Memphis, as he celebrated the birth of his daughter, Gabriela, with fiancee Anamaria Goltes.
Luka Dončić graced the Mavericks’ lineup on Saturday night against Oklahoma City, following a brief hiatus after the joyous occasion of welcoming his daughter into the world
Despite Luka Dončić‘s comeback, the Mavericks faced additional challenges on the court. Star guard Kyrie Irving, a key contributor, was sidelined due to a foot injury, finishing the night with a season-low 10 points on 3-of-15 shooting during the 108-94 loss. Tim Hardaway Jr., the team’s third-leading scorer and a significant presence off the bench, missed his second consecutive game due to back spasms. The injury bug further afflicted the team with occasional starter Josh Green nursing an elbow injury, and Dante Exum absent for personal reasons for the second straight game.
Mavericks found themselves short-handed
The Mavericks found themselves short-handed with the absence of not only key players but also reserve big man Maxi Kleber, who has been sparingly available since November 1 due to a dislocation of his right small toe. Despite the challenges, Luka Dončić’s return marked a pivotal moment for the team, striving to navigate the season with a lineup hindered by various setbacks, including injuries and personal matters affecting key contributors.