Luka Dončić Out for a Week Due to Injuries

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Lakers announced that star player Luka Dončić will miss at least one week due to a left finger sprain and a lower left leg contusion. The injuries occurred during the Lakers’ recent game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where Dončić shined with 49 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists.

Head coach JJ Redick commented on the situation, saying, “It just kind of was something that happened. I wasn’t even aware of it after the game. Everything’s got to be done within the framework of what we’re trying to do.”

Through the first two games of the season, Dončić had averaged an impressive 46 points, leading the Lakers to a 2-1 record. The 26-year-old has scored more points in the first two games than any other Lakers player before him.

His absence comes at a challenging time for the Lakers, who are already without fellow superstar LeBron James, sidelined due to sciatica. Backup center Jaxson Hayes will also miss the upcoming game due to knee soreness. With a demanding schedule ahead, including three road games this week, the Lakers will need to rely on their remaining players.

Redick expressed confidence in the rest of the team, saying, “We’re going to need offense from other guys.” The Lakers are expected to face the Sacramento Kings on Sunday night, followed by games against the Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Memphis Grizzlies.

Austin Reaves is poised to step up his game as the now-top scoring option while the stars are out. He has averaged 25.5 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds so far and will be essential in keeping the Lakers competitive in the coming games.

As Dončić is evaluated next week, the team is hopeful that he can return sooner rather than later, avoiding any long-term issues with his injuries.