After missing six weeks with a calf injury, Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic is still working his way back into game shape while adjusting to his new team and city
The five-time All-NBA guard hasn’t had the luxury of easing into competition. On Friday against the L.A. Clippers, he showed flashes of his usual brilliance, knocking down two clutch step-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter. Despite an inefficient shooting night, he managed to record his second 30-point performance as a Laker.
Balancing the challenge of regaining form while adapting to a new system isn’t easy, but Doncic’s aggressive approach is a positive sign. After the Lakers’ 106-102 victory, the 26-year-old acknowledged the team’s strong chemistry and shared that he’s gradually feeling more like himself without disrupting their cohesion.
“The first thing I noticed was how connected they play on both ends of the floor,” Doncic said. “The ball moves well, and that stood out to me right away. I’m just trying to fit into a different style of basketball than I’m used to. But since returning, they’ve let me play my game. I still have a long way to go, but slowly, I’m starting to feel like myself.”
His late-game three-pointers, a signature part of his game, were a result of a more assertive mindset.
“I think the key was not waiting—just going for it,” Doncic said. “That’s what helped me in the fourth quarter.”
Through seven games with the Lakers, Doncic is averaging 21 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 6.4 assists while shooting 37.3% from the field and 24.1% from beyond the arc. Fans are eagerly awaiting a signature performance, but despite his adjustment period, the Lakers continue to find ways to win.
Doncic Credits Lakers’ Bench in Win Over Clippers
Friday’s victory wasn’t the smoothest, especially with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura sidelined. However, the Lakers’ bench played a crucial role on both ends of the court. Doncic acknowledged their impact, crediting the second unit for putting the team in a position to secure the win.
Lakers injury report for the rematch against the Clippers: Luka and LeBron are dubious; Reaves
Lakers Provide Injury Update Ahead of Second Clash with Clippers
The Los Angeles Lakers have shared some encouraging updates in their latest injury report as they prepare for a rematch against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, just two days after their 106-102 victory.
Superstars Luka Dončić and LeBron James are both listed as questionable, dealing with left calf and left foot injury management, respectively. The duo carried the same designation for Friday’s game but ultimately took the floor, making it likely they’ll suit up again for the rematch.
Austin Reaves and Jordan Goodwin Doubtful
Austin Reaves, however, appears far less likely to play. The 26-year-old exited Friday’s contest in the first quarter with a right calf strain and is officially listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game.
Similarly, Jordan Goodwin is also doubtful after rolling his ankle late in the win against the Clippers. He has been diagnosed with a right ankle sprain and is not expected to participate in the rematch.
Hachimura and Kleber Ruled Out
Two players who have been confirmed out for Sunday are Rui Hachimura and Maxi Kleber. Hachimura is dealing with left patellar tendinopathy, while Kleber continues his recovery from right foot surgery. Hachimura is scheduled for re-evaluation in a week, but the Lakers remain optimistic about his return timeline.
Positive News for Reaves
Despite initial concerns, Reaves’ MRI results brought good news. NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Reaves avoided a serious injury and will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis. His availability for Sunday remains uncertain, but the diagnosis is a relief for the Lakers.
“Lakers guard Austin Reaves will be day-to-day after MRI on his right calf revealed no serious injury, sources tell ESPN. His status is uncertain for Sunday against the Clippers, but great development overall after Reaves exited early in Friday’s win.”
Reaves, who is averaging 19.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists this season, is not expected to miss significant time. However, sports injury expert Dr. Evan Jeffries believes he could be sidelined for several days or up to a week as a precaution.
Lakers Stay Hot Despite Injuries
The Lakers have taken a cautious approach to injuries in the past, so Reaves could miss a couple of games to ensure a full recovery. Earlier this season, he was sidelined for five games in December with a left pelvic contusion, though this absence is expected to be shorter.
Despite dealing with multiple injuries, the Lakers remain in top form. Their win over the Clippers marked their fifth consecutive victory, improving their record to 37-21 on the season.
Regarding the reported transfer of Jai Lucas to Miami, Duke coach Jon Scheyer speaks out.
The Duke Blue Devils went to Miami and blasted the Hurricanes on Tuesday evening, 97-60, an entirely unsurprising result considering the current trajectory of both programs. Miami – who dropped to 2-15 in ACC play – is entering a new era after longtime head coach Jim
Larranaga abruptly announced his retirement in December in the midst of another disappointing season. Recent reports indicate the ‘Canes are working to hire Duke associate head coach Jai Lucas, which made Tuesday’s game a little more interesting for Miami fans who got a look at the present and potential future of the program.
Duke’s current head coach – Jon Scheyer – addressed the rumors surrounding his right-hand man on Tuesday.
Jai is a special coach,” Scheyer said. “We’ve been through a lot together for three years. He’s everything you could want…He’s a great coach, bottom line. Our friendship will always be there no matter what.”
Lucas has been at Duke the last three seasons, and prior to that spent two years under John Calipari at Kentucky. He also spent seven years at Texas, working his way from Director of Basketball Operations to assistant coach.
The hiring has not been finalized, with recent reports saying the two sides are still negotiating. Start date is among the issues being discussed, as Miami certainly wants a coach in place prior to March 24 when the transfer portal opens, while Duke could conceivably still be playing into April if they make the Final Four.
Next up for Miami is a road game in Chapel Hill against North Carolina on Saturday, March 1 at 12:00 PM ET on ESPN.
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