Lakers’ Luka Doncic Receives Positive Injury Update Ahead of Mavericks Game

Los Angeles Lakers superstar guard Luka Doncic wants to play on Thursday against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin shared on NBA Today that L.A.has been encouraged that Doncic’s injury is only a mid hamstring strain. On top of that, McMenamin added that Doncic wants to return on Thursday when the Lakers take on the Mavericks.

“The Lakers have been encouraged that it’s only a mild hamstring strain, but Luka’s never dealt with a hamstring injury before in his 8-year NBA career,” McMenamin said. “This has been a bit of a different rehab for him. Thursday against his former team, the Mavericks, is not out of the question. He certainly has some motivation to get back on the court in time to play in the All-Star Game this weekend.”

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The six-time All-Star has missed the team’s last three games with the injury.

So far, the Lakers are 1-2 in that stretch that featured two of the best teams in the league, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs.

Doncic suffered the injury on Feb. 5 against the Philadelphia 76ers. The injury occurred late in the second quarter, and he did not return for the second half. L.A. is confident the injury is not serious, and all reports have indicated that remains the case.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick noted that Doncic is “progressing” in his rehab and remains day-to-day.

How Different Are the Lakers When Luka Doncic Is on the Floor?

The Lakers are a different team when Doncic is on the court. He makes the team highly effective, especially on the offensive side of the ball, where he thrives the most.

Pair him alongside Austin Reaves and L.A.’s offense goes to another level. Per 100 possessions, the Lakers outscore their opponents by 14.2 points.

Without Doncic on the court this season, the Lakers sit with a 5-5 record. L.A. has been able to keep its head above water in the meantime; still, it’s unclear when it could be back on the hardwood. 

The Lakers sit with a 32-21 record prior to the Mavericks matchup. L.A. will look to head into the All-Star break on the right note.

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