Exum, who was expected to miss four weeks with a left hand fracture, has a chance to beat that timeline by a few days. If he returns to take on the Lakers, his role will likely be too limited for him to make an impact in the box score, but his return will be a welcomed one for Dallas.

Exum sustained the injury in the first half of Friday’s game against the Rockets. The Mavericks confirmed Saturday that the 29-year-old shooting guard suffered a left hand fracture and will be re-evaluated in four weeks. Spencer Dinwiddie and Brandon Williams figure to get more playing time in Exum’s absence.

Exum injured his hand during the first half of Friday’s game against the Rockets. Unfortunately, that could be his last action of the season, with Charania reporting that Exum suffered a broken bone in his left hand. His absence means more playing time for Spencer Dinwiddie and Brandon Williams. In Williams’ case, he only has a few games remaining on his two-way contract. The Mavericks must give him an extended deal to ensure he’s available for all their remaining games.