Luka Doncic Returns for Mavericks vs. Pelicans

Luka Doncic returned to the Dallas Mavericks lineup on Tuesday against the New Orleans Pelicans after missing a game due to a right knee contusion. Doncic played a season-low 28 minutes in his previous game against San Antonio, where he scored 16 points before sitting out the final minutes. Coach Jason Kidd remarked on Doncic's performance, noting that while his averages are down, they are still impressive. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving is sidelined with a shoulder strain, impacting the team's depth. The Mavericks have managed to win two games in a row despite these injuries, including a notable victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team is currently positioned at 7-7 in the Western Conference, with multiple injuries affecting both their roster and their opponents.