Luka Doncic is officially out of Game 2 of the Dallas Mavericks’ first-round playoff series against the Utah Jazz.
Doncic suffered a calf strain in the very last game of the regular season which forced him to miss Game 1, and while there was not much optimism about his chance to return for Game 2, the Mavericks were determined to give him every chance to prove his fitness.
Listed as doubtful, Doncic participated in shootaround and was not ruled out until 90 minutes before tip-off.
The three-time All-Star averaged 28 points, nine rebounds and almost nine assists this season, and his absence is a crushing blow for the Mavericks.
The Jazz won Game 1 in Dallas 99-93, and can take a commanding two-game lead, before heading back to Utah for Game 3 and Game 4.