Luka Dončić's return to the court is reportedly just around the corner. The Los Angeles Lakers' new superstar, currently out due to a calf strain, is targeting a return Monday against the Utah Jazz, according to Marc Stein. Dončić has already begun practicing with the team, participating in a 5-on-5 scrimmage on Wednesday. He also joined the Lakers on the bench during their win Tuesday against the Los Angeles Clippers.
There were previous hopes for Dončić to come back as early as Saturday, prompting ESPN to flex the Lakers' game against the Indiana Pacers onto its broadcast schedule. Lakers head coach JJ Redick stated on Wednesday, “We’re kind of just assessing it day-by-day. We hope to have him back within the next few games.” Redick confirmed after practice, “He was a participant. We just had non-contact practice today. But we got some good work for about 45 minutes. And he’ll have a stay-ready game at some point. And over the next two days, Thursday, Friday, he’ll have some more opportunities to play live basketball. And then we’ll make a decision on Saturday. If it’s not Saturday, hopefully it’s Monday.”
Dončić hasn’t appeared in a game since his injury on Christmas Day, during which he faced the Minnesota Timberwolves. His highly anticipated Lakers debut is set against the backdrop of his recent blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks. The Lakers acquired Dončić — known for five straight All-NBA appearances and making his first Finals — on Saturday, giving up Anthony Davis along with Max Christie and a first-round pick.
The mere nature of this trade has shocked many within the basketball community. There was no prior indication of such shifts among the players involved, and the Mavericks' move has stirred mixed reactions. Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison pointed to Doncic's conditioning issues and defensive deficiencies as pivotal factors leading to this decision. Despite this, Dončić himself appears undeterred, viewing the criticisms surrounding his play as motivation. He stated, "That's fine. I've been questioned many many times in my life. Just another motive to be more prepared for myself and just take another road. I'm just happy to be here, you know. Play basketball. That's all I want."
After witnessing the impact of his move, Dončić's presence has already shifted the dynamics for Los Angeles. Despite losing Davis, the Lakers are optimistic about their future, especially with LeBron James looming around the edge of free agency. Analysts and fans are eyeing the team anew with Dončić now as their face of the franchise.
Redick has remained optimistic about Dončić's recovery process, providing insights on Doncic's return. "Probably more likely Monday," Redick mentioned, aligning expectations after earlier reporting suggested Saturday might be feasible. “No commitment made on anything, but probably trending more toward Monday,” he explained as Dončić continued trending positively after the scrimmage. Redick noted, “All is well, all is positive.”
The Lakers played their first game post-trade against the Clippers, where Dončić was present, observing from the bench. The matchup ended favorably for Los Angeles, instilling confidence within the team and shifting focus to the poised debut of their new ace.
Anticipation among Lakers fans has reached fever pitch as they dream of what Dončić could bring to their playoff aspirations. With upcoming back-to-back matchups against the Jazz, the window for his integration and performance is quickly approaching. Dončić's talent combined with the experience he shares with James could propel the Lakers as serious championship contenders.
While it’s clear the Lakers are not rushing his return, the franchise’s approach reflects the broader goal of developing chemistry with Dončić, James, and new roster additions, including those secured recently. Redick recognizes the learning curve they face, stating they want detox confidence-building both from Dončić and the medical staff before he returns to the court.
“There’s work to be done once he’s back and healthy and in the lineup,” Redick said. “And I think we’re all anticipating it. I know the fans are anticipating it, and certainly our coaching staff and players are anticipating it.”
Clearly, the inclusion of Luka Dončić marks not just another chapter for him but rather signifies the potential of the Lakers to reignite their title hopes come playoff season. The anticipation is tangible as all eyes are on Friday’s final evaluations before he potentially suits up Monday. The Lakers are ready to turn the page to this new era, influenced heavily by the presence of their new superstar.