Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has not been in full health during their ongoing first-round series against the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
The 25-year-old has been struggling with a right knee sprain. He was initially listed as doubtful heading into Game 5 of the series on Wednesday, May 1, before ultimately taking the court.
In addition to the knee sprain, Doncic revealed that he has been dealing with an illness for the past week.
"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 do for the team to win," the five-time NBA All-Star said during their morning shootaround ahead of Game 5.
Doncic also admitted that he would probably sit out this game if it were a regular season matchup, but given the series is tied at 2-2, they need to secure a win.
The 2019 NBA Rookie of the Year's right knee was visibly padded more than usual during his pre-game warmup routine, and he has also been noticeably coughing and congested throughout the day.
Luka Doncic keeps up stellar numbers, but his efficiency has dropped
During the first four games of the playoffs against the Clippers, Doncic has been averaging 29.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 8.5 assists, and 1.0 steal per game.
While these are stellar numbers, the Slovenian playmaker has been struggling efficiency-wise.
Doncic is only shooting 38.6 percent from the field and 26.5 percent from beyond the arc in this series and averaging 3.8 turnovers.
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