Lakers' Luka Doncic Returns vs. Timberwolves After Suffering Apparent Back Injury

The Los Angeles Lakers were already fighting to preserve their season in Wednesday's Game 5 of their first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and things got more difficult in the first half when Luka Dončić exited with an injury.

He fell awkwardly after a hard foul by Donte DiVincenzo and then went straight to the locker room after hitting the ensuing free throws.

However, he returned to start the second half.

Dončić struggled with injuries this season. Calf issues kept him out for two different stretches, including a strain that occurred on Christmas Day when he was still a member of the Dallas Mavericks.

That injury caused Dončić to miss 19 games, delaying his Lakers' debut after being acquired in a trade on Feb. 2. He has remained largely healthy since returning to the lineup on Feb. 10.

After a slow start, at least by his standards, Dončić started looking more comfortable on the Lakers and is now a critical part of their offense.

Dončić's presence also helped Los Angeles tread water when James was sidelined with a groin injury this season.

Gabe Vincent could see more time if Dončić is limited.