Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle says Luka Doncic has high pain tolerance, which seems to suggest the Mavs' Wonder Boy will play in Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers despite having a sprained ankle.
However, Carlisle did admit the Mavs don't want to play Doncic if he's injured, which is different than playing through pain, per Brad Townsend of the Dallas Morning News.
Rick Carlisle boiling down the decision of whether @luka7doncic will play Game 4. pic.twitter.com/PDblGHL2lp
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) August 22, 2020
Luka Doncic understands the importance of Game 4, so he may try and push through this injury when it could be more beneficial for him to rest. With that said, the Mavs and their medical staff have to make the best decision after doing proper due diligence.
Doncic has been a superstar all season and that has continued in the playoffs. Even if the reigning Rookie of the Year plays in Game 4, though, the Mavs still need Kristaps Porzingis to play like a superstar since Luka likely won't be close to 100 percent. This is where Porzingis has to assert his will and physical presence and take over against the Clippers.
If the Mavs lose Game 4, the series is likely over. Odds are Doncic will play since it's the playoffs and he's an intense competitor who hates to lose.
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