Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic was obviously in pain throughout Game 4 against the Los Angeles Clippers, and it could very well explain his poor showing in the contest.
However, the Mavs guard is not using it as an excuse. He admitted he was “terrible” in the game while explaining the real condition of the “weird” neck injury he suffered in Game 3.
According to Luka, he's dealing with a nerve issue in his neck; however, it is feeling “way better” now compared to how it was on Saturday. The Slovenian baller also pointed out that it should be healed and ready for Game 5 when they return to Staples Center.
“I don’t think that matters right now. … I played terrible, so we just got to move on to the next one.”
Luka on the Game 4 loss and dealing with a nerve issue in his neck ⁰⁰(via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/nTz2yKxbQf
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 31, 2021
Back in the second half of Game 3, Luka Doncic was spotted getting treatment on his neck and shoulder area. The team eventually called it a cervical strain and he was labeled as questionable for Game 4–although he was largely expected to play despite the injury report.
During Game 4, the struggle was real and clear for Doncic. There were a lot of times that he had to touch his bothersome neck, and there were several instances he was just grimacing in pain when just passing or shooting the ball.
Fortunately for Luka and the Mavs, they will have a two-day rest before they play the Clippers again on Wednesday. It should be a good amount of time for Doncic to recover and heal better in their bid to regain their lost lead against the Ty Lue-coached LA squad.