Mavs’ Luka Doncic To Play Game 5 Against Clippers Despite Knee Sprain And Illness

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic , battling a knee sprain and an illness, has committed to playing in Wednesday’s crucial Game 5 against the Los Angeles Clippers as both teams seek to break a 2-2 tie in their first-round NBA playoff series.

Doncic acknowledged that if it were a regular-season game, he might have opted to rest and recover. However, given the playoff implications, he’s choosing to push through.

Doncic explained his knee situation bluntly: “Not good. Could be way better, but it is what it is.” He’s been limited to non-explosive movements and focused mostly on shooting in recent days, with a significant amount of time dedicated to treatment.

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers Updates

Despite his physical ailments, which include a persistent illness that had him coughing and congested during the morning’s shootaround, Doncic remains determined. “I’m fine,” he said. “I’ll be ready for this game.”

While his shooting efficiency has decreased to 38.6% overall and 26.5% from three-point range, Doncic’s contributions are still substantial. He’s averaging 29.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game in this series.

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers Updates

Reflecting on his readiness to overcome physical challenges, Doncic stated, “I’ve been in this situation a lot. I’ve been playing through injuries a lot. So just go out there, have fun and do everything you can for the team to win.”

The Mavericks face major stakes in Game 5, considering the Clippers hold homecourt advantage. A victory would enable Dallas to potentially close out the series at American Airlines Center on Friday, while a loss would not only place them in an elimination game, but would require winning a Game 7 on the road to advance.

Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook .

Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network .

The post Mavs’ Luka Doncic To Play Game 5 Against Clippers Despite Knee Sprain And Illness appeared first on NBA Analysis Network .