The Dallas Mavericks gave their fans a reason to cheer on Monday night, but it wasn’t just their dominant performance against the Washington Wizards. No, the real showstopper happened at halftime—when Luka Doncic, injured but never irrelevant, decided to remind everyone why he’s still that guy.
While his teammates jogged into the locker room, Doncic casually drained a three-pointer over Spencer Dinwiddie, who, fun fact, signed a one-year, $3,303,771 contract with the Mavericks last July. That’s right—Doncic didn’t just hit a three; he hit it over 3.3 million dollars worth of professional basketball player. Talk about getting your money’s worth!
Jogging Off Like a Tease
If that wasn’t enough to get Dallas fans fired up, the five-time All-Star was also seen jogging off the court—an encouraging sign for someone recovering from a left calf strain. For weeks, the Mavericks faithful have been waiting for an update, and Doncic basically just delivered one himself, no press release needed.
Mavericks insider Noah Weber summed it up best on Twitter:
“Luka Doncic just drilled a three over Spencer Dinwiddie as they walked back to the locker room for halftime and lightly jogged off the floor. Looked to be moving well and was in great spirits.”
Translation? He’s cooking up a comeback, and we might not have to wait too long to see it.
Doncic’s 25-Game Disappearing Act
Doncic has been out since Christmas Day, which means he’s already missed 25 games this season. That’s like an entire Marvel movie marathon’s worth of basketball. But the whispers around the league suggest his return could be sooner than expected—possibly even before the All-Star break.
And let’s be honest, the NBA just isn’t the same without him. Whether he’s torching defenses, throwing no-look passes, or treating opponents like expensive practice cones, Doncic brings a certain magic to the game.
Klay Thompson, Luka Doncic, and the Mamba Connection
Meanwhile, Klay Thompson turned back the clock against the Wizards, dropping seven three-pointers in the first half. The man was on fire—literally, if you ask Washington’s defense.
After the game, Thompson reflected on the late, great Kobe Bryant, revealing that his very first conversation with Doncic was about the Lakers legend.
“Man, I knew you (Luka Doncic) were going to be special because he brought Kobe (Bryant) out of the house to go watch him play, and Kobe doesn’t just give that love to those who don’t earn it,” Thompson said.
That’s high praise from a four-time NBA champion—and honestly, he’s right. Doncic isn’t just a generational talent; he’s a walking highlight reel with an unwritten rule that defenses simply cannot guard him.
What’s Next for Luka & The Mavs?
If Doncic is indeed close to returning, Dallas might be in for a major boost. The team has been holding its own, but with their superstar back, they become a whole different beast.
And let’s not forget—Doncic has a history of making dramatic comebacks. If you think he’s just going to ease back into action, you clearly haven’t watched Luka Doncic play basketball. When he steps back on that court, expect fireworks.
For now, though, he’s still technically sidelined. But if hitting deep threes over his own teammates and jogging off the floor like it’s no big deal is any indication… well, let’s just say, Dallas fans might want to start planning that welcome back party sooner rather than later.