The 2024-25 NBA preseason is just two days away for the Dallas Mavericks, who will kick things off on Monday against the Memphis Grizzlies. The real excitement starts on October 24 when they face Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.
Earlier this week, the Mavericks began training camp, generating excitement among fans for the upcoming game against Memphis. However, fans won’t see the team at full strength, as superstar Luka Doncic has a calf contusion and will miss the preseason opener. It’s unclear whether he’ll be out for additional games.
Injuries are also impacting the team, with guard Dante Exum suffering a wrist injury that might require surgery, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The specifics of how Exum got injured are unknown, but he had previously dealt with a finger injury during the Olympics that limited his summer participation.
Exum played a significant role in the Mavericks’ success last season and was expected to be key again this year, especially with his defensive skills. However, the addition of guard Quentin Grimes has complicated Exum’s standing on the roster. He was also left out of the playoff rotation last season against the LA Clippers, further clouding his future role.
Exum was anticipated to be one of the Mavericks’ main defensive players off the bench, so this injury not only impacts the team’s depth but also raises questions about their rotation. On the flip side, this situation could create opportunities for other guards like Jaden Hardy and Spencer Dinwiddie to step up and compete for minutes.
It’s unclear how long Exum will be sidelined, but this injury could significantly affect his future with the Mavericks. He’s entering the last guaranteed year of his contract, and if he had performed well this season, he could have been in line for a new deal.
Overall, this injury not only influences Exum’s situation in Dallas but could also have ramifications for his career in the NBA.
Stay tuned for more updates on Dante Exum and the Dallas Mavericks.
