Lakers Announce Luka Doncic Injury News on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jan 16, 2026 8:41 PM ET

Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers suffered a tough loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday. Despite Doncic’s strong play — including a 19-point explosion in the first quarter — the Lakers still came up short, 135-117.

Doncic finished the game with 39 points on 15-of-26 shooting, three rebounds, four assists, and six three-pointers in 36 minutes of action. It still wasn’t enough as the Lakers suffered their fourth loss in their last five games.

Doncic suffered an injury against Charlotte, too. He left the game in the third quarter due to a back issue. However, the five-time All-Star was able to return to finish the game.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts after he was poked in the eye during a game.Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Lakers are back in action on Saturday in a road game against the Portland Trail Blazers. They enter that contest with a 24-15 record and will be looking to bust out of their recent slump with a win.

The Lakers, however, will not have Doncic for that one. On Friday, the team announced via the official injury report that Doncic has been ruled out against the Blazers due to a sore left groin.

Apart from the back injury he sustained against the Hornets, Doncic is also dealing with a groin issue. These injuries will force him to sit out Saturday’s game, which is the first night of a back-to-back set for the Lakers. They play again on Sunday in a home matchup against the Toronto Raptors. For now, Doncic’s status for that one can be considered uncertain.

Doncic has been incredible in his first full season with the Lakers. In 32 games played thus far, the 26-year-old guard has averaged a league-best 33.6 points on 46.8% shooting, 7.7 rebounds, 8.7 assists and 1.6 steals. He’s also knocking down 3.4 triples per game on a 33.4% clip.

The Blazers will host the Lakers on Saturday, with tip-off from Moda Center scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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