Is Luka Doncic playing tonight against Minnesota Timberwolves? Latest on All-Star's Game 5 status (May 30)

Luka Doncic is questionable to play Game 5 of the Western Conference finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday. Doncic has carried the same status into all games in this series as he's dealing with multiple injuries. However, he's yet to miss a game and is expected to suit up.

The Mavericks have another closeout opportunity after missing the chance to sweep the Timberwolves in Game 4 at home. Dallas found success on the road in the first two games behind Doncic's brilliance, and it will count on that again.

What happened to Luka Doncic?

Doncic is currently dealing with a right knee sprain and left ankle soreness issue. He suffered a knee injury against the LA Clippers in Game 2 of the first round on Apr. 23, following a collision with Russell Westbrook. Doncic suffered the ankle issue against the OKC Thunder in Game 2 of the conference semis on May 9 as Cason Wallace accidentally tripped him.

Luka Doncic stats vs. Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024 Western Conference finals

After a shaky playoff run in the first two rounds, Doncic returned to his best in the conference finals against the Timberwolves. He has averaged 31.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 9.0 assists, shooting on 43/40/86 splits in four games. Doncic has been solid defensively, too, making 2.3 steals per contest.

His return to form is key to the Mavs being up 3-1 against expectations. Doncic's off night in Game 4 proved the direct impact of his struggles as the Mavericks lost 105-100. The Slovenian had 28 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists, but he shot only 33.3%.

Akin to his teammates, he was a no-show defensively compared to previous games, with multiple costly lapses.

Luka Doncic takes accountability for Game 4 loss

Luka Doncic took responsibility as the Mavericks leader for the lack of energy demonstrated by the team during the Game 4 loss. Dallas allowed the Timberwolves to impose themselves early, which gave Anthony Edwards and Co. the momentum to control most of the game.

The Timberwolves were more physical and aggressive, two areas the Mavericks dominated in the first three games to go up 3-0. Doncic didn't seem too worried, though. He maintained the belief that the lack of effort wouldn't continue in the following contest on the road.

The Mavericks can't afford to let the series stretch again, as it can shift the momentum quickly, especially with how threatening the Timberwolves have looked in such situations.