Irving returns to Mavericks’ lineup against Clippers, Doncic misses 2nd consecutive game

By The Associated Press

Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving drives to the basket against the Washington Wizards during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, in Washington. The Mavericks won 137-101. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Nick Wass]

DALLAS (AP) — Kyrie Irving will return to the Dallas Mavericks’ lineup against the Los Angeles Clippers after missing one game with a sore shoulder, but Luka Doncic will miss his second consecutive game because of a left heel contusion. Dallas is 5-2 without Doncic, who is fifth in the NBA with 28.9 points per game. He had triple-doubles in three of his last four games. The Mavericks played without both guards for the first time this season on Thursday night against the Clippers at home and lost 118-95.