Update on Feb. 6: JJ Redick said that if it is not Saturday (Feb. 8), then it will be Monday (Feb. 10). The game on Sat. is now flexed to ESPN, but the latest reporting from Marc Stein suggests the Monday game is now his new target date.
The Los Angeles Lakers shocked the world by trading for Luka Doncic and many fans cannot wait to see his first game with the franchise.
But what some may not remember is that Doncic is currently injured and has not actually played in a game since December 25. That is one of the reasons why Doncic did not actually make the NBA All-Star Game this season.
Doncic is currently dealing with a left calf strain injury but has also missed time due to other lingering issues including his wrist. However, after more than a month on the sidelines, he is expected to return soon.
Kendrick Perkins said on First Take that he heard Luka Doncic will be able to play by Saturday.#Lakers host the Pacers on Saturday afternoon
— Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) February 3, 2025
In fact, according to ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins, his first game could come as soon as Saturday against the Pacers in Los Angeles. This would give Doncic three games before the All-Star break, including two against the Jazz.
This is aligned with reporting from Marc Stein, who indicated that Doncic was targeting a Feb. 8 return before he was traded from the Mavericks.
Another potential date is Feb. 10 at home against the Jazz, per Marc J. Spears.
Brian Windhorst just said on ESPN that Luka Doncic is ramping up and getting closer to a return. There's a sense he could be back from his calf injury around the All-Star break.
— Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) February 2, 2025
Other reporting from both ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Shams Charania suggested that he could wait until after the All-Star break for his first game with Los Angeles.
Their first game after the All-Star break is Feb. 19 against Charlotte in Los Angeles. If he chose this path, it would allow him an eight-week recovery window for his calf strain.
