Luka Doncic returns after scary back injury scare against Minnesota Timberwolves in playoff Game 5 battle

The Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff hopes nearly took a devastating turn Wednesday night when star guard Luka Doncic suffered a frightening fall late in the second quarter of Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. With just over a minute left before halftime, Doncic drove hard to the basket and collided midair with Donte DiVincenzo and Rudy Gobert. The impact sent Doncic crashing to the floor, where he immediately grabbed his lower back and winced in pain.

Luka Doncic collected his strength to sink both free throws before heading straight to the locker room. The sight of him gingerly walking off the court left Lakers fans holding their breath and created immediate concern throughout Crypto.com Arena. TNT later reported that Doncic received treatment and had his lower back.

LeBron James and head coach JJ Redick were both spotted in the tunnel, anxiously awaiting an update. According to the broadcast, they were hoping to hear good news regarding the star.

When the second half began, there was a collective sigh of relief as Doncic returned to the floor, wearing a visible back brace. Though his mobility was limited, he walked through some possessions and was clearly laboring, his presence gave the Lakers a spark. Just over nine minutes into the third quarter, Doncic nailed a deep three-pointer, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and reminding everyone why he’s so vital to this team.
This was far from Doncic’s first encounter with injury this season. After being traded from the Dallas Mavericks on February 2, he was forced to delay his Lakers debut due to a lingering calf strain originally sustained on Christmas Day. That injury kept him out for 19 games. Since returning on February 10, Doncic has largely been a stabilizing force for the Lakers, especially during stretches when LeBron James was sidelined with a groin issue.
At the time of his injury in Game 5, Doncic had 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists. He remained on the floor throughout the second half, grinding through pain as the Lakers tried to claw back from a 10-point halftime deficit. The Timberwolves ultimately maintained control of the game, but Doncic’s effort didn’t go unnoticed.
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If Doncic is forced to miss any time or play at less than full strength, Gabe Vincent is expected to see increased minutes. For now, though, the Lakers can breathe a little easier knowing their star is doing everything in his power to keep their postseason dreams alive.