Is Luka Doncic playing tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (April 19, 2025)

The NBA playoffs are here, and the Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a high-stakes Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. With LeBron James leading the charge and Luka Doncic making his postseason debut in purple and gold, fans are eager to know: will the Lakers be at full strength?

Here’s a breakdown of the injury report, key players to watch, and why this matchup could be a revenge game for Doncic.

Los Angeles Lakers injury report : Will Luka Doncic play tonight? (April 19, 2025)

Lakers’ injury report for Game 1 vs. Minnesota: pic.twitter.com/tWcTr0om5u

— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) April 18, 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers have been relatively fortunate with injuries heading into Game 1. Here’s the latest update:

Player

Status

Injury



- Maxi Kleber remains sidelined as he recovers from January foot surgery.

- LeBron James is listed as probable but is expected to play.

- Luka Doncic is fully healthy and ready for his Lakers playoff debut.

Doncic’s impact since joining the Los Angeles Lakers

Here's a look ahead to LA's Round 1 series against Minnesota, with quotes from Redick, LeBron and Reaves on the matchup:https://t.co/SKFPHVCrtB

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) April 18, 2025

Since arriving in Los Angeles via a mid-season trade, Doncic has been nothing short of spectacular. His numbers speak for themselves:

- 28.2 points per game

- 8.1 rebounds per game

- 7.5 assists per game

- Team leader in steals

With his elite playmaking and scoring ability, Doncic gives the Lakers a legitimate edge in the playoffs.

A revenge game for Doncic?

The last time Doncic faced the Timberwolves in the playoffs, he dominated them in the Western Conference Finals:

- Averaged 32.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists

- Hit a game-winner over Rudy Gobert

- Won Western Conference Finals MVP

Now, with a stronger supporting cast in Los Angeles, Doncic has a chance to repeat history.

Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff lineup and expectations

Coach JJ Redick has experimented with a formidable "death lineup" featuring:

- Luka Doncic

- LeBron James

- Austin Reaves

- Rui Hachimura

- Dorian Finney-Smith

This combination gives the Lakers versatility on both ends of the floor, making them a tough matchup for Minnesota.

With Doncic healthy, LeBron locked in, and key role players stepping up, the Lakers are in a strong position to make a statement in Game 1. The Timberwolves may have depth, but the Lakers have the star power and playoff experience to set the tone early.