Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle spoke about the nature of his star forward Dirk Nowitzki and his recent decision to undergo a season-ending surgery on his left ankle.

Carlisle noted what had been reported on Thursday. Nowitzki had planned this surgery with the organization in hopes to return to full health for his 21st season in the league. The 7-footer signed a modified two-year contract for $10 million this past summer and plans to honor it.

“This was pre-planned,” said Carlisle, according to Dwain Price of Mavs.com. “At least a little long ago. Not that long ago. We didn’t view it as serious. It’s just something to help him facilitate him feeling better for next year.”

Pressed for further details, the man at the helm caved in before catching himself in the act.

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“He's got a lot of bone spurs,” added Carlisle. “I’m not really authorized to get into the discussion about what’s going on in the ankle. Look, he’s had them ever since I've been here, and that’s 10 years.”

Old man Dirk had played in 77 of 78 games prior to sitting out the last game against the Orlando Magic, showing incredible durability for a soon-to-be 40-year-old.

The German international was plagued by injuries all season long in 2016-17, only making 54 appearances through the campaign. If he finishes out the 2018-19 season, he'll eclipse Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant for the longest stint for a player with only one franchise throughout an NBA career.