Game 4 of the NBA Finals will take place on Friday, with the Boston Celtics looking to complete the sweep against the Dallas Mavericks.
The Mavs need to find some inspiration if they want to extend the series, as they have been unable to find an answer to stop Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and company.
Luka Doncic reflects on challenges ahead of Game 4 in NBA Finals
If they are to extend their season, a lot will depend on the play and health of star Luka Doncic. The Slovenian is suffering from a chest injury (thoracic contusion), with the issue coming to light before Game 3.
His status for the game was up in the air, though he did end up playing after receiving, in his words, a “pain-killing injection.”
What is Doncic’s status for Game 4?
As for Game 4, all signs point to Doncic playing as he is currently listed as probably. While more treatment is likely needed ahead of the game, it isn’t the only injury Doncic is battling, as he deals with a sprained right knee and injured left ankle.
Despite his health woes, Doncic has appeared in every one of the Mavericks’ postseason games. They’ll need him if they are to become the first time to come back from a 3-0 deficit in NBA history.
Doncic’s play in the playoffs has been exceptional, averaging 28.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 8.4 assists and 1.8 steals per game.
However, his play has dipped in the finals, with critics hitting out at his lacklustre defence. According to Second Spectrum, the Celtics hace successfully driven past Doncic on 67.7 attempts – the highest percentage for a defender in the postseason in the past 10 years.
“His defensive performance is unacceptable, he’s a hole on the court, the Celtics are ahead in the series because they have attacked him defensively,” stated ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
“He’s costing his team because of how he treats the officials. His performance in this game is unacceptable and the reason why the Mavs are not gonna win.”
