Lakers Without Luka Dončić for Thursday’s Game Against Raptors

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Lakers announced Wednesday that superstar guard Luka Dončić will miss the game against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday due to personal reasons. This development comes as the Lakers head into a challenging stretch of games.

Dončić, who leads the league in scoring with an impressive average of 35.3 points per game, has also been contributing 8.9 rebounds and 8.9 assists in 16 games this season. His absence is a significant blow for the Lakers, who currently hold a record of 15-5 and sit second in the Western Conference.

The Lakers have previously managed to win three of the four games they played without Dončić this season. However, they face a tough test ahead with upcoming matches against the Raptors, Boston Celtics, and Philadelphia 76ers.

In addition to Dončić, Marcus Smart will also be absent from the game due to lower back injury management. Dončić’s last performance was marked by nine turnovers in the Lakers’ recent 125-108 loss to the Phoenix Suns, which ended their seven-game winning streak.

The Raptors, currently ranked second in the Eastern Conference with a 15-7 record, will look to exploit Dončić’s absence. While the Lakers will rely heavily on LeBron James and Austin Reeves to boost their offensive efforts, the Raptors will need to strategize on how to defend against this formidable duo.

Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena, with fans able to watch via TSN Sports or stream on NBA League Pass.