"Significant Pessimism" Over Doncic's Availability For Game 3 Tonight

While Luka Doncic declared himself "feeling great" after an on-court workout this morning, it appears that there is "significant pessimism", according to NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, over his availability for the Dallas Mavericks for Game 3 of their first-round series with the Utah Jazz tonight. 

There's still significant pessimism on Luka Doncic's availability for Game 3 tonight, sources tell ESPN. He's eager to play, but it's trending unlikely as he recovers from that left calf strain. https://t.co/Qodn0Fuuyc

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 21, 2022

"He's eager to play," writes Wojnarowski, "but it's trending unlikely as he recovers from that left calf strain."

According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN, Doncic had an "extensive individual workout" after the team's shootaround, that included running, ballhandling and shooting. 

Still listed as "questionable"

He's still listed as "questionable", and head coach Jason Kidd said earlier in the day that it will essentially be a game-time decision. 

Doncic suffered the injury in the final game of the regular season about 10 days ago. Shortly after that, Woj reported that his sources told him that this was "more than just a mild calf strain."

Yesterday, the Mavericks' superstar called sitting out these playoff games the "toughest thing ever."

It appears that Mavs fans shouldn't get their hopes up too high for tonight, though Game 4 on Saturday could be a more reasonable expectation. The series is currently tied 1-1. 

Photo Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports