Watch: Exact moment Luka Doncic possibly suffered serious injury vs Timberwolves

The Dallas Mavericks endured a Christmas nightmare against the Minnesota Timberwolves after Luka Doncic suffered a serious injury. Doncic left the game in the second quarter and was later diagnosed with a left calf injury. He's expected to miss some time and will undergo further testing as soon as possible.

In the video below, Doncic attacked the Timberwolves defense following a screen by Dereck Lively II. He was being defended by Jaden McDaniels, so he had to slow down like he usually does. McDaniels recovered and did a good job stopping the Mavs superstar.

Doncic planted his right leg to create separation and tried his patented step back. But as he planted his left leg, he quickly passed the ball and signaled the bench to be subbed off. He limped and grimaced in pain as the play continued.

Here's the exact moment Luka Doncic suffered a left calf injury:

Luka Doncic has been dealing with various injuries this season, starting with a left calf contusion in the preseason. Doncic then suffered a minor groin injury in early November, followed by knee problems a few days later. He then missed a week because of a strained wrist.

Doncic also faced a heel contusion last week, so it has been a struggle for the Dallas Mavericks superstar. He did have a long 2023-24 season as the Mavericks reached the NBA Finals. He also suited up for Slovenia in the Olympic Qualifying tournament.

According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Mavericks are preparing for the worst and expecting Doncic to be out for a long period. He's scheduled to get an MRI soon to determine the severity of his injury. He was initially diagnosed with a left calf strain and left the arena on crutches, which is never a good sign.

The good news for the Dallas Mavericks is they are 6-2 this season without Luka Doncic in the lineup. Kyrie Irving is set to carry more load on offense, while Spencer Dinwiddie, Quentin Grimes and Naji Marshall are expected to get extra minutes.

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Mavericks lose to Timberwolves without Luka Doncic for rest of the game

With Doncic leaving the game in the second quarter, the Mavericks were outscored 31-16 in the period. The Timberwolves took advantage and ensured that they were in control for the rest of the game.

The Mavs didn't give up as they tried to make a comeback in the fourth quarter. But in the end, the rally fell short as the Timberwolves earned a 105-99 win. Anthony Edwards had 26 points, eight rebounds and five assists, while Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert both registered a double-double.

Kyrie Irving had a game-high 39 points plus four rebounds and two assists. Quentin Grimes scored 10 points off the bench, while Luka Doncic had 14 points, five rebounds and two assists before suffering the injury.