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Doncic Cleared to Play vs. Clippers After Injury Scare

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 21:17 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: California, Texas, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 21st, 2026 - In a saga that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic has been officially cleared to play against the Los Angeles Clippers tonight at Crypto.com Arena. After a day of fluctuating injury reports - ranging from questionable to probable and back again - the Mavericks confirmed that Doncic will be in the starting lineup despite lingering soreness in his left ankle.

The initial injury, which forced Doncic to miss Wednesday's decisive 130-92 loss to the Golden State Warriors, created considerable anxiety for Mavericks fans. The team clearly struggled without their franchise player, highlighting just how integral Doncic is to their offensive system and overall success. That defeat underscored the team's reliance on the Slovenian sensation, raising concerns about their playoff aspirations should he face a prolonged absence.

Doncic participated in the Mavericks' shootaround earlier today, a positive sign that suggested he was progressing. However, the team remained cautious, understandably hesitant to risk further injury to their key player, especially with the playoffs looming. The back-and-forth nature of the injury updates throughout the day reflected the team's careful evaluation of Doncic's condition, balancing his desire to play with the need to protect his long-term health.

The Clippers present a formidable challenge. Currently positioned as a top contender in the Western Conference, they boast a deep roster and a strong home-court advantage. The Mavericks will need a full strength Doncic to have a realistic chance of securing a victory. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, are known for their defensive prowess, making Doncic's offensive firepower all the more crucial.

The LeBron James Comparison Continues

The attention surrounding Doncic extends beyond the immediate matchup against the Clippers. As the article highlights, Lakers fans are particularly invested in his performance. The ongoing comparisons between Doncic and LeBron James, arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, are a constant narrative. Like James, Doncic entered the league with extraordinary skill and a maturity beyond his years. Both players possess a unique blend of scoring ability, playmaking vision, and court awareness.

Analysts and fans alike frequently debate whether Doncic has the potential to reach - or even surpass - the level of LeBron. His statistical achievements are rapidly stacking up to those of James in his early years, and his impact on the Mavericks is undeniable. Tonight's game, and indeed the remainder of the season, will provide further fuel for this compelling debate. Many see similarities in their court vision, ability to control the pace of the game, and leadership qualities. However, James' longevity and multiple championships remain the benchmark for true greatness.

Game Details & How to Watch

For fans eager to tune in, the game is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET and will be nationally televised on ABC. Those preferring to stream the action can find it on ESPN+. The match-up promises a high-octane battle between two of the league's top teams, and with Doncic confirmed to play, the stakes are even higher. The Clippers will undoubtedly focus on limiting Doncic's impact, potentially employing double-teams and aggressive defensive schemes. The Mavericks will need contributions from other players - Kyrie Irving, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Dereck Lively II - to alleviate the pressure on their star and exploit any defensive lapses.

Tonight's game isn't just about one game; it's a statement. A win for the Mavericks against a conference rival like the Clippers would send a clear message that they are serious contenders. A loss, however, would leave them needing to fight to maintain their playoff positioning. The Western Conference is notoriously competitive, and every game carries significant weight. All eyes will be on Luka Doncic to see if he can deliver a performance that lives up to the immense expectations surrounding him.