Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks has suffered a left calf contusion during a workout, leading to an MRI that revealed a strain.

He will be re-evaluated in one week and will also miss the preseason opener against the Memphis Grizzlies on October 7.

Dončić's absence is expected to provide increased playing time for teammates like Spencer Dinwiddie, Dante Exum, and Jaden Hardy.

As a result of the injury, Dončić is expected to miss the regular-season opener against the San Antonio Spurs on October 24, but there are no long-term health concerns.

This injury comes after Dončić played a crucial role in leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season, where they finished as runners-up to the Boston Celtics.

Last season, Dončić averaged an impressive 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game, solidifying his status as a top point guard in the league.

In August 2021, he signed a five-year, $215 million extension with the Mavericks, and he could be eligible for a record-breaking $346 million extension in 2025.

However, there has been criticism regarding Dončić's conditioning, with former Lakers player Michael Cooper labeling him as 'lazy' and the coaching staff urging improvements.

As the NBA season progresses, discussions on social media highlight Dončić's significance in the league, alongside other top-ranked point guards.

Despite his injury challenges, Dončić has been a consistent MVP candidate since entering the league in 2018 and was named to the All-NBA First Team this past season.

The Mavericks have bolstered their roster this season by adding Klay Thompson, who will join Dončić and Kyrie Irving in their pursuit of the franchise's first title since 2011.

Mavericks coach Jason Kidd has expressed confidence in Dončić's ability to recover and contribute significantly after the opener.