Quick Read
- Luka Doncic suffered a left hamstring injury during the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night.
- He left the game in the second quarter and did not return, being ruled out due to left leg soreness.
- Doncic is expected to undergo an MRI on his left hamstring on Friday.
- Lakers coach JJ Redick stated it was “too early to say if it’s an injury” but confirmed Doncic had a “sore hamstring.”
- Doncic’s availability for Saturday’s game against the Golden State Warriors is uncertain.
LOS ANGELES (Azat TV) – Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic sustained a left hamstring injury during Thursday night’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers, casting immediate doubt over his availability for the team’s upcoming schedule, including a pivotal Saturday matchup against the Golden State Warriors. Doncic exited the game in the second quarter and did not return, with the Lakers ruling him out for the remainder of the contest due to left leg soreness.
The incident occurred with 3:30 left in the second quarter when Doncic, facing a double-team, turned the ball over on a bad pass. He was subsequently seen grabbing the back of his left leg before heading to the locker room. The frustration was evident as Doncic reportedly kicked the scorer’s table on his way off the court and displayed further visible annoyance in the tunnel, as captured by the Spectrum SportsNet broadcast.
Doncic Exits 76ers Game in Second Quarter
Before his premature departure, Luka Doncic had accumulated 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists in 16 minutes of play. His absence for the entire second half left the Lakers to finish the game without their primary playmaker. Following the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick addressed reporters, stating, “Too early to say if it’s an injury. (Doncic) had a sore hamstring.” This cautious assessment underscores the uncertainty surrounding the severity of the issue.
Lakers Await MRI Results Amid Injury Concerns
ESPN has reported that Doncic is expected to undergo an MRI on his left hamstring on Friday. The results of this scan will be crucial in determining the exact nature and extent of the injury, and consequently, his recovery timeline. Hamstring injuries can range from minor strains, requiring a few days of rest, to more severe tears that could sideline a player for weeks or even months.
Uncertainty for Lakers’ Upcoming Schedule
The timing of Doncic’s injury is particularly challenging for the Lakers, who are scheduled to host the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, February 7. His status for this high-profile matchup will be closely monitored, with any extended absence posing a significant challenge to the team’s aspirations. As a cornerstone of the Lakers’ offense and playmaking, Doncic’s health is paramount to their performance, especially as they navigate a competitive Western Conference season.
Luka Doncic’s injury introduces immediate uncertainty for the Los Angeles Lakers, forcing the team to confront a critical period without their star player as crucial games loom, potentially impacting their strategic approach and overall standings.