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Luka Doncic returns for Mavs to face Lakers after missing 3 games because of sprained ankle

Jan 17, 2024 | 6:45 PM

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Luka Doncic returned to the Dallas Mavericks against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night after missing three games because of a sprained right ankle.

Doncic is second in the NBA in scoring at 36.8 points per game and is tied for third in assists at 9.1. In 17 games against the Lakers, the 6-foot-7 superstar guard is averaging 25.8 points.

The Mavericks entered the night tied for fifth in the Western Conference with a 24-17 record. Doncic and Kyrie Irving have played together in only 20 games. Dallas is 12-8 in those contests.

“Cohesion between the two has been good. I think when you look at how much we want things to happen instantly or right away, it just takes time,” coach Jason Kidd said before the game.