11/11/2004 07:09:44 AM|||Shep|||

"Dallas, TX (Sports Network) - Dallas Mavericks guard Michael Finley is expected to miss Thursday's game against the Miami Heat with an ankle injury.

The 31-year-old Finley suffered a second-degree ankle sprain during Tuesday night's loss to the Orlando Magic. X-rays taken after the game were negative.

Finley, the 21st overall pick in the 1995 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, is averaging 17.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists in five games this season.

The injury could sideline the Wisconsin product for the next four to five games. Dallas is 4-1 on the young 2004-05 season."

Fantasy Impact

The Mavs play three more games this week (including the one on Thursday). They only play three games the week after that. At 4-1, they're probably not likely to rush Finley back too soon. If you're in a league with weekly lineup changes, I'd be hesitant to put him in next week. Keep a close eye on the news, and be sure to check for any updates on Sunday.|||110017858441674042|||Mavs' Finley to miss some time