Christmas Day brought heartbreak instead of miracles for the Dallas Mavericks, as their star player Luka Doncic suffered a serious leg injury. According to early reports, the Slovenian sensation is not expected to return until February, effectively ending his bid for the NBA MVP award this season.

The NBA’s updated rules require players to feature in at least 65 games to qualify for MVP consideration. With this extended absence, Doncic will be unable to meet the threshold.

Doncic has been a dominant force for Dallas this season, averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 7.8 assists, and 2 steals per game. His efforts have propelled the Mavericks into the top four in the Western Conference, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most impactful players.

Injuries, however, have been a recurring theme in Doncic’s career. He has never played more than 72 games in a season, but this marks the first time he faces an extended absence of over a month.