Doncic’s Absence Felt as Lakers’ Season Concludes
Luka Doncic’s absence was keenly felt by the Los Angeles Lakers as they wrapped up their season with a 115-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a surprising first-round triumph against Houston, the Lakers were unable to advance further, ultimately being swept by the defending champions.
Doncic, who has been recovering from a grade 2 hamstring strain incurred on April 2, missed the Lakers’ last 15 games, including the entire playoff series. The NBA scoring leader shared that his recovery process is ongoing and he hasn’t reached the stage of contact practice. “I know some people wanted me (to come) back, but obviously I wasn’t close to clearing,” Doncic stated. “If I could be out there, I would be, 100%.”
Despite Doncic’s absence overshadowing the Lakers’ playoff hopes, his performance during the regular season was noteworthy. In his first full season with the Lakers, Doncic averaged impressive figures: 33.5 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.7 rebounds over 64 games.
Teaming up with LeBron James and Austin Reaves, Doncic was instrumental in the Lakers’ 14-2 run through March before both he and Reaves were sidelined due to injuries. Reflecting on the season, Doncic remarked on the team’s chemistry and potential championship aspirations. “Playing with AR and LeBron, it’s an incredible experience. Two great players, and it was really fun to share a court with them,” he expressed.
Off the court, Doncic faced personal challenges, including splitting from his fiancée, with whom he shares two daughters residing in Europe. In light of the Lakers’ season conclusion, Doncic announced his decision to skip Slovenia’s national team duties this summer, prioritizing family and legal proceedings for joint custody. “First of all, I want to spend time with my daughters, and that’s probably the only thing that’s on my mind right now,” Doncic said regarding his summer plans.
While LeBron James ponders his next steps after completing his 23rd NBA season, and Austin Reaves looks forward to a potential contract extension, Doncic remains committed to his future with the Lakers. Having signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension last summer, Doncic is set to stay with the Lakers for at least two more seasons. “I feel very comfortable,” he said. “I like living here. I like playing for the Lakers. It’s one of the best organizations in the world, so just being a Laker means a lot to me, and I feel very good here.”
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