Despite Luka Doncic's absence, the Dallas Mavericks look far from doomed in the NBA playoffs. They are even in their first-round series against the Utah Jazz and could be getting Doncic back soon. If the Mavs get their superstar back against a Jazz team with a defense as thick as tissue paper, they should easily be able to advance.

According to NBA reporter Marc Stein, Doncic is increasing his activity at practice as he heals from his left calf strain. It is becoming more and more possible that the Mavs' All-Star returns for Game 3 or Game 4, which are respectively on Thursday and Saturday.

Doncic averaged 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds and 8.7 assists this season for the Mavs. Yet, without their star, Dallas has figured out how to neutralize Rudy Gobert and get good looks at the basket. Spencer Dinwiddie and Jalen Brunson have kept up with Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley on the offensive end.

Although Dallas has played Utah very well, they will need Doncic to go far in the NBA playoffs. His contributions will be key against stiffer competition. If the Mavs can jeep their hot shooting with the Don comes back, they could be a menace to whoever they play.

The Mavs star has shown that he can elevate his game in the playoffs. He averages 33.5 points, 10.3 assists and 7.9 rebounds per game. he would be at the top of the NBA playoffs points-per-game leaderboard if he had enough minutes to qualify. Luka Doncic is not someone you would want to face in the postseason. The Jazz may have to live with that scenario soon.