The Mavericks are adjusting to life without Luka Doncic after the All-NBA guard suffered a calf injury on Christmas Day.
Doncic is set to miss extended time after going down during Dallas' loss to the Timberwolves, causing the Mavericks to fall into the fray of a crowded Western Conference.
While Doncic's averages are down from last season, he saw his efficiency spike in December and appeared to be playing some of his best basketball in recent weeks. Not only could the injury derail his momentum, but it could also remove him from eligibility for awards and All-NBA honors.
Here's what you need to know about Doncic's injury and his timeline for return.
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What is Luka Doncic's injury?
Doncic is dealing with a left calf strain, tests confirmed, according to ESPN.
The Mavericks star reportedly received multiple opinions in late December before Dallas made any decisions about his timeline.
Dallas ruled Doncic out for the remainder of the Christmas Day game shortly after he went to the locker room with the injury, and they went on to lose, 105-99. He was seen on crutches after the game.
How long is Luka Doncic out?
Doncic will be re-evaluated in one month, ESPN reported on Dec. 27, so his earliest possible return date will be in late January.
Even if Doncic receives the best news possible when he's re-evaluated, he still would almost certainly need some time to ramp up basketball activities. That means a February return is more likely for the All-Star.
The lengthy absence has rendered Doncic ineligible for postseason NBA awards that have a games-played cut-off of 65. Doncic's streak of five consecutive first-team All-NBA selections will end this year.
Dallas is 22-17 and has also been forced to navigate the absence of Kyrie Irving, who has dealtwith a back injury.
Doncic had never missed more than 17 games in any previous season.
MORE: Why Anthony Edwards regrets calling out Kyrie Irving
Mavericks upcoming schedule
Here's a look at the Mavericks' upcoming five games:
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) |
| Jan. 14 | vs. Nuggets | 9:30 p.m. |
| Jan. 15 | at Pelicans | 8 p.m. |
| Jan. 17 | vs. Thunder | 8:30 p.m. |
| Jan. 20 | at Hornets | 12 p.m. |
| Jan. 22 | vs. Timberwolves | 7:30 p.m. |