Mavericks Luka Doncic Officially Out for Game 3

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic is officially out for Game 3 against the Utah Jazz, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports.

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic is out for Game 3 vs. Utah tonight, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/PhQ3KWWHPj
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 21, 2022

The past couple of days, including the last few hours, were filled with plenty of speculation on whether the All-NBA guard will be able to return for the Mavericks in a crucial game.

Woj's previous update said there was "significant pessimism" that Doncic would be back for Game 3 and this just confirms his status.

The 23-year-old, who suffered a calf strain on the day of the regular season, was reportedly eager to go out there and help his crew grab back home court advantage. Doncic was seen participating in practice as he worked his way towards a potential return in their first road game in these 2022 playoffs.

Unfortunately, the Mavericks will need to go to battle without their franchise superstar for a little longer.

Dallas leaned on the spectacular 41-point performance by Jalen Brunson in its 110-104 Game 2 win over the Jazz on Monday.

With the series shifting to Salt Lake City, the Mavericks will likely need another masterpiece from Brunson, or perhaps, Spencer Dinwiddie if they want to avoid going down 2-1.

Dallas will continue working on Doncic as they focus to get the 3-time All-Star back for a potentially must-win Game 4 on Saturday.