Nowitzki Suffers Torn Tendon
Added on Jun 01, 2011 by Scott in
No Comments
The Mavericks Game 1 loss to the Heat in the NBA Finals was bad enough, but it just got worse with news that Dirk Nowitzki tore a tendon in his left middle finger. It occurred late in the fourth quarter after stripping the ball and fouling Chris Bosh. Despite the severity of the injury, he’s not expected to miss Thursday’s Game 2.
Dirk didn’t sound overly concerned upon receiving the diagnosis.
“So I tore a tendon in there. I guess it will be all right. I have to wear a splint probably the rest of the playoffs.”
It might not be on his shooting hand, but a torn tendon is still a torn tendon. Donning a splint might not sound like that big of a deal, but it doesn’t take much to disrupt a shooter’s feel and timing. Obviously Nowitzki is going to brush off the notion it will affect him.
Needless to say, the Mavs are facing an uphill climb already, so a less than 100% Nowitzki can’t be helping head coach Rick Carlisle sleep any easier. The big German has been lights out thus far in the playoffs, averaging 28.3 points and converting 50.9% from the field. However, his 7-18 performance in Game 1 was his third worst in 16 postseason games.
The Heat held Dallas under 90 points for only the second time in the playoffs. They also gave the Mavs a dose of their own medicine by knocking down 11 three-pointers and winning the rebound battle 46-36. If they hope to stay in the series, hitting open shots and getting physical on the glass must be priorities. In order to do that, Nowitzki must lead the charge and get more help from his teammates.
LeBron James, for one, isn’t of the belief that a torn tendon will slow down Dirk.
“That left hand is just a guide hand for all shooters,” James said. “We all know that. It won’t affect him. He’s still going to be great. He’s still going to be Dirk.”
If you’re a Mavericks fan, cross your fingers LeBron is right. Dirk probably will be great, but suggesting a splinted finger is a non-factor is wishful thinking.
Source: ESPN.com
No Comments
You must be logged in to post a comment.
