The Dallas Mavericks are already without their best player due to a knee injury, now they could be without one of their role players.  Shawn Marion had to leave last night's game against the Portland Trail Blazers.  He came down awkwardly on his knee after 24 minutes of play and had to leave the game.

According to Tim MacMahon of ESPN Dallas, Marion will be evaluated further today.  At this point the extent of the injury is not known.  Marion was able to at least return to the bench after initially being checked out by trainers in the locker room.

Marion is in his fourth season with the Mavericks.  He was a stand-out player for the Phoenix Suns for a while, but he has bounced around the league a bit before landing with Dallas.  This is his 14th year in the league after being drafted by the Suns ninth overall in 1999.

In his career, Marion has averaged 16.4 points per game and 9.2 rebounds.  He is a key player, and one that continues to contribute at the age of 34.  With Nowitzki already injured, every other player on the team has to step up.  If the team is without Marion as well, it will get increasingly difficult for the Mavericks to stay afloat.

Currently, Dallas is 3-1.  It's a good record, but if the rest of the team does not stay healthy, it's unlikely they can maintain this pace.  For now, fans, Marion, and the team can only hope the knee injury is not severe and nothing more than a minor sprain.
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