Dirk Nowitzki injury: Dallas Mavericks’ forward exits game with shoulder issue

Feb 24, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Dallas Mavericks power forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) shoots the game winning shot over New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) at Madison Square Garden. Dallas Mavericks won 110-108. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

Almost as soon as the Dallas Mavericks started their game against the New Orleans Pelicans Wednesday night, star forward Dirk Nowitzki left the game with what appeared to be a shoulder injury.

Just 31 seconds into the game, Dirk Nowitzki checks out after appearing to injure his left shoulder. He's headed to the locker room.
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 27, 2014

It looked like it could be a false alarm.

However, Nowitzki continued to get his shoulder worked on and returned to the locker room.

Dirk injured his left shoulder on the first play of the game. Getting worked on in a timeout. Now back to lover room
— Eddie Sefko (@ESefko) February 27, 2014

Nowitzki is averaging 21.7 points and 6.0 rebounds per game this season.