Mavericks' Parsons to miss 2nd straight game with swollen knee

The Dallas Mavericks aren't taking any unnecessary risks as they approach the playoffs.

After clinching a postseason berth thanks to the Oklahoma City Thunder's loss Tuesday night, the Mavericks will sit small forward Chandler Parsons for a second consecutive game Wednesday when they play the Phoenix Suns, according to head coach Rick Carlisle.

Parsons is dealing with a swollen right knee, which first cropped up during last Thursday's loss to the Houston Rockets.

X-rays on Parsons' knee came back negative last week, and Carlisle initially said he didn't believe the issue was serious.

On Wednesday, he sounded a little less certain.

"He’s doing better, but he’s just not there yet," Carlisle said. "We’d like to get him back to play a game or two before the playoffs, if it’s possible, but nothing is for sure. He’s doing better each day, and there are some encouraging signs. Beyond that, I can’t tell you what’s going to happen."