Concerns for the Los Angeles Lakers. The team is worried about superstar Luka Doncic after an early exit.
Did the Los Angeles Lakers pay dearly for their 119:115 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday evening? Superstar Luka Doncic has certainly thrown the NBA franchise into turmoil.
Before halftime, the Slovenian repeatedly clutched his left thigh, eventually limping off the court – and stayed there. The team subsequently reported “pain in the left leg.” An MRI on Friday is expected to show how severe the injury actually is.
Luka Doncic in a duel with the Sixers
It was clear during the game that Doncic was visibly struggling with limitations. Full of frustration, he kicked a table upon his exit.
Another Doncic Absence Looms
The 25-year-old had already missed eight games this season due to various leg problems. Despite everything, he leads the NBA with an average of 33.4 points per game and also recorded 8.7 assists and 7.9 rebounds.
Against Philly, the point guard managed only ten points (3/10 FG), four rebounds, two assists, and five turnovers in 16 minutes of playing time. After his exit, Doncic was replaced by forward Rui Hachimura.
Teammates Step Up
He repaid that trust with 14 points and seven rebounds. Together with LeBron James and Austin Reaves – it was only the tenth time this season that all three were on the court simultaneously – he led the Lakers to a 119:115 victory.
James had missed 14 games at the start of the season due to sciatica, and Reaves only returned on Tuesday after a 19-game absence due to a calf strain.
Now the Californians are worried about top scorer Doncic.