The Dallas Mavericks start their season tonight against the Indiana Pacers. In a season loaded with questions about whether they can reach the postseasons, the Mavs are already at a disadvantage with injuries:
Rick Carlisle says Devin Harris will be in a walking boot for likely 3 weeks with a right big toe sprain. Will be reevaluated then.
— Earl K. Sneed (@EarlKSneed) October 26, 2016
Rick Carlisle says the injury is to Devin Harris' non-surgically-repaired big toe, which is the right foot. The hope is he can return later.
— Earl K. Sneed (@EarlKSneed) October 26, 2016
This is obviously not great news. Harris has a history of injury issues – he’s played in more than 65 games once in the past five seasons. The foot injury is even more notable, coming off surgery.
The Mavs are not loaded at the point guard position by any means. Deron Williams is fine, but he’s not consistently great like he used to be. JJ Barea is a decent backup but limited in what he can do due to his size and athleticism. If anything, there is now more pressure for Harrison Barnes to become a lead ball-handler and shot creator.
Devin Harris is not a star by any means. But he has been a model of consistency for the Mavs. His injury will be a big blow to a team who will be battling for the 8th seed in the West.
