Dallas Mavericks are all set to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 5. However, whether they are all geared up for the face-off remains a mystery. Luka Doncic developed a knee ailment during the time the Mavs were facing the Clippers in the playoffs’ first round. The situation became more severe after OKC’s Cason Wallace stepped on Doncic’s foot. However, the 25-year-old pushed through all of it at every stage of the playoffs, missing no game yet.

The Mavericks can feel more relieved now, as according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Luka Doncic’s injury report status is ‘probable’. “Mavs list Luka Doncic (right knee/left ankle) as probable for Game 5. No additions to injury report,” MacMahon posted on X. It is worth mentioning that the Mavs guard was listed as ‘questionable’ ahead of Game 4, which has now shifted ahead of Game 5.

This assurance was something both the fans and the franchise itself needed. The Mavericks are currently at a crucial stage of the conference semi-finals, with the series tied at 2-2. And they will need their key player against OKC. It is important to highlight that Luka Doncic has not only had an impeccable record this season but also seized an impressive record against the Thunder. Notably, Doncic has faced OKC 13 times in the regular season and won 8 games, losing just 5. 

Apart from this, the 5x All-Star has also had an epic stat line against OKC. He averaged 28.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game against the team, facing them in 13 games. So, these accolades add to the importance of Luka Doncic for the depth of the entire roster.

Luka Doncic and Co.’s depth chart

It is worth mentioning that the Mavericks already suffered a blow to their roster with Maxi Kleber. Kleber, an efficient shooter for the team, has not played after suffering a shoulder injury. This came during the deciding game between the Mavs and Clippers in the playoffs’ first round. Kleber was driving to the basket when he was fouled by the Clippers’ Amir Coffey, resulting in his insufferable fall to the floor.

Subsequently, the 32-year-old was diagnosed with a right shoulder AC joint separation. Since then, he has not played a single game against the OKC yet. As per the reports, his estimated return date is May 25. Now, considering all these updates and Luka Doncic’s recent status, the starting lineup for the Dallas Mavericks for Game 5 is most likely to look like this:

It is yet to be seen if the Mavericks can gain a 3-2 lead in the series with this roster. What is your opinion of the upcoming Game 5 between OKC and Mavs? Let us know your favorites in the comments.