Mavericks' Jason Kidd Offers Key Injury Updates Ahead of Jazz Matchup
The Dallas Mavericks continue their surge in the Western Conference as they prepare for a pivotal clash against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center tonight. With an 11-8 record, Dallas sits in seventh place, fueled by defensive prowess and key contributions from role players. Yet, the spotlight remains on their injury report and head coach Jason Kidd’s latest updates.
May 28, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd high fives guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the third quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves in game four of the western conference finals for the 2024 NBA playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Jason Kidd addressed the status of several players during Friday's practice, providing clarity while remaining tight-lipped about certain returns.
“Gaff [Daniel Gafford] is back,” Kidd confirmed. “He’s done practice. Everybody but Klay [Thompson].”
Thompson, who has missed two consecutive games with a foot injury, is progressing.
“Yeah, yeah, he looks good,” Kidd said. “For what he can do, yeah.”
Meanwhile, Luka Doncic, who has missed the last four games, practiced with the team, raising speculation about a potential return. Kidd, however, was reluctant to offer specifics.
“Luka,” said Kidd. “That’s as far as I can go. He looked good. What else would you like me to say? Make something up. I mean, he looked good. I don’t know what else I could give you.”
Dallas’ recent success has been driven by standout performances from players like Naji Marshall and P.J. Washington. Marshall has averaged 15.1 points per game in November, while Washington has posted four consecutive double-doubles. Their contributions, coupled with Spencer Dinwiddie’s back-to-back 20-point games off the bench, have kept the Mavericks competitive in Doncic’s absence.
With Kidd’s updates signaling potential returns, the Mavericks will look to capitalize on their momentum and continue climbing in the Western Conference standings. The contributions of players like Marshall, Washington, and Dinwiddie have highlighted the team’s depth, but the potential reintegration of stars like Doncic and Gafford could provide a critical boost as the Mavericks face a tightly contested playoff race. Saturday's game against the Jazz offers a prime opportunity for Dallas to solidify their position and showcase their resilience, regardless of who takes the floor.
