Luka Doncic provides injury update after hard fall causes “big bruise” (Image Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)

Dallas Mavericks superstar guard Luka Doncic suffered an apparent left arm injury during Thursday’s 108-102 home loss to the Houston Rockets. However, he played through the ailment and expressed little concern postgame.

With 2:24 remaining in the first half, Doncic was fouled by Rockets wing Amen Thompson and took a hard fall. Afterward, he stayed on the ground for a few seconds and held his left arm in pain, later attempting to shake off the injury.

Upon being helped up by his teammates, the five-time All-Star continued to favor his left arm. However, he ultimately shot both free throws and remained in the game.

After scoring 14 points on just 6-for-17 (35.3%) shooting across the first three quarters, Doncic broke out of his slump in the final period. He tallied 15 points and three 3-pointers on 6-for-8 (75.0%) shooting. His late-game scoring eruption helped the Mavericks cut their 23-point deficit to three points late in the game before they came up short.

During his postgame interview, Doncic was asked if there was “any concern about [his] left arm.” He noted that he only sustained a left elbow bruise, seemingly implying that he won’t miss any time.

“It’s just the elbow, it’s a big bruise,” Doncic said. “But it’s fine. Just my fingers got a little tingly, but it’s fine.”

The Mavericks (3-2) next host the Orlando Magic (3-2) on Sunday. So, Doncic has a few days to recover before his next chance to take the court.

Luka Doncic says he’s still working his way “into rhythm” amid slow start to season

With Thursday’s 29-point performance, Luka Doncic continued to underperform by his standards. However, according to the superstar guard, he is still ramping up after missing the entire preseason due to a left calf contusion.

After averaging a league-best 33.9 points per game last season, Doncic has scored fewer than 30 points in four of his first five outings. He is averaging 27.2 ppg, shooting just 38.7% and 29.2% from deep.

When asked about his slow start during Thursday’s postgame interview, Doncic attributed it to his training camp setback.

“I didn’t have preseason, so I’m just trying to get back into my rhythm,” Doncic said.

However, he added that he started to feel “a little bit like (himself)” during the fourth quarter against Houston.

So, perhaps Doncic’s strong finish against the Rockets will help him get back on track.