For Volibear's attack ability that deals 5 damage, when do you choose targets and assign damage - before the trigger resolves or when it resolves?

Ruling: When Volibear attacks, the trigger goes on the chain and you choose targets at that time. When the trigger resolves, you then assign the 5 damage between the chosen targets (must assign at least 1 damage to each).

Sequence:

  • Attack with Volibear, trigger goes on the chain
  • Choose targets for the damage
  • When trigger resolves, assign the 5 damage between chosen targets

Nuances:

  • You must assign at least 1 damage to each chosen target
  • Because targets are chosen before resolution, opponents can respond by buffing units before damage is assigned