Is Luka Doncic playing tonight against Boston Celtics? Latest update on 5-time All-Star's status for Game 5 (June 17)
Luka Doncic is again listed as probable to play in Game 5 of the NBA finals as the Dallas Mavericks look to take it one game at a time against the Boston Celtics, who remain one win away from the NBA championship.
According to the latest injury report, Doncic is dealing with a thoracic contusion. However, Doncic has been listed with the same status throughout the NBA Finals, yet he has still played in all the games.
Despite his probable status in the injury report, Doncic is expected to lead the Mavericks in staving off the Celtics and force Game 6.
The Mavs registered a dominant win in Game 4. Luka Doncic scored 25 of his 29 points in the first half to give Dallas a headstart and dominate the Celtics early, exacting the third biggest blowout in NBA finals history, 122-84.
What happened to Luka Doncic?
Luka Doncic has been suffering from a thoracic contusion since Game 1 of the NBA Finals after trying to draw an offensive foul. A thoracic contusion is caused by a direct blow or impact to the chest.
On top of the chest injury, Doncic is also dealing with knee and ankle injuries, which he picked up early in the playoffs against the LA Clippers in the first round.
How important is Luka Doncic for the Dallas Mavericks?
Luka Doncic is the focal point of the Dallas Mavericks’ offense, averaging 29.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists in the first four games of the NBA Finals.
However, Doncic has struggled from the three-point range, shooting 25% on nine attempts per game. He converted 47% of his shots from the field in about 25 attempts per outing.
Moreover, Doncic’s defense has been an attack point for the Celtics after allowing 13 blow-bys in Game 2, which was the most by any player in the past decade. The Celtics are expected to continue attacking him in their offense, considering the state of Doncic’s body.
How to watch Game 5 of the NBA Finals?
ABC will air Game 5 held at the TD Garden in Boston on Monday. It can also be streamed through platforms such as FuboTV, SlingTV, Hulu+LiveTV, and the NBA League Pass for other parts of the world. The game will tip off at 8:30 p.m. EDT.