Everything rides on Game 5 for the Los Angeles Lakers. Down 3-1, they can either be on the bright side of history, or they become one of the biggest upset stories of the season. A union of LeBron James and Luka Doncic is currently down 10 against the Minnesota Timberwolves with their playoff lives hanging in the balance. But things might have gotten worse. The Lakers could lose the best player of the series for the night.

In the second quarter, Doncic looked to attempt a reverse layup. However, he converged between two Timberwolves players. The Slovenian lost control of his body and landed awkwardly, instantly holding his lower back. That was the last action from Luka Doncic in the first half of Game 5.

It seemed the Lakers’ job of keeping their season would become tricky. But Doncic heroically suited up to start the third quarter. But to Reggiw Miller and Kevin Harlan, his comfort was evident. “The back clearly not cooperating,” Harlan said about Doncic’s demeanor to start the third quarter.

Miller, on the other hand, suspected Doncic to be suffering from back spasms. While they are periodic in nature, the Pacers legend revealed just how abysmal they can be. “It zaps everything. It zaps your strength, your jumping ability, your ability to move laterally,” Miller educated the viewers.

Despite all that, Doncic waded his way through nearly 10 minutes of the third quarter with a tape on his back. His ability to be productive might be impacted, but he still has the heart of a warrior. The former Mavericks All-Star guard played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ 10-point turnaround while he was on the floor, scoring 13 points.

Now, there’s just one quarter of basketball remaining. Luka Doncic doesn’t have an ounce of quit in him. So the Lakers are still in the mix.

Everything on the line for the Lakers

This could be the last 12 minutes of the season for the Lakers. They aren’t fully healthy with their play dictator, Doncic, unable to be his complete self. But despite their obstacles, there’s always a chance with the hoard of talent the Lakers have. They have actually managed to defend the Timberwolves really well.

So far, Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle have only combined for 25 points, shooting just 9 for 26 from the floor. Surprisingly, the one giving the Wolves an edge is Rudy Gobert. The center has compiled a monstrous double-double, leading all scorers with 24 points.

But while he has been the most prolific attacking the rim due to the Lakers’ size, they could also use him to snatch an advantage. Both Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves’ defensive pillars, are on four fouls each. Over the years, Luka Doncic has managed to gain an advantage when facing up against the French center.

He could maybe use his game acumen and instincts to put foul pressure on Gobert. Moreover, while he probably won’t be able to score unconsciously, the Lakers do have players who can. Rui Hachimura is the Purple and Gold’s best scorer after Doncic tonight. His three-point shooting threat alongside LeBron James and Austin Reaves could be how JJ Redick decides to strategize.

Or maybe Luka Doncic inspires the Lakers with a sensational performance. All that can be said is both teams need only a few strikes to decide the fate of their postseason. Who do you think will emerge victorious tonight? Let us know your views in the comments below.