Luka Doncic expected to return Wednesday

Mavericks star Luka Doncic is expected to be back in action on Wednesday night after missing the team’s last five games due to a left thigh strain, tweets ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. The Mavs have formally listed Doncic as probable to play vs. Golden State.

Doncic, who suffered the injury during a March 8 loss in New Orleans, has been bothered by multiple minor ailments this season and has now missed a total of 15 games. Dallas is 5-10 in those contests and has slipped to .500 (36-36) on the season after going 2-3 during its latest stretch without him. All three of those losses came against Memphis.

When he has played, Doncic has been his usual dominant self, posting a team-best 33.0 points per game on 50.0% shooting. He has also contributed 8.6 rebounds and 8.0 assists in 36.3 minutes per night.

Barring a setback, Doncic will suit up on Wednesday in what will be a critical game in the Western Conference playoff race. The Mavs currently hold the No. 8 seed, but would pass the No. 6 Warriors in the standings with a victory Wednesday.

It’s unclear whether or not Doncic’s fellow backcourt starter will be available. Kyrie Irving is listed as questionable after aggravating a right foot injury in Monday’s loss to the Grizzlies.