
The Los Angeles Lakers have started the 2025–26 season with a 1–1 record, losing their season opener against the Golden State Warriors and bouncing back Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Through the first two games, Luka Doncic has gotten off to a historic start in his first full season with the purple and gold. The 26-year-old Slovenian guard has logged back-to-back performances totaling at least 40 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. He has shot the ball exceptionally well, hitting 62.0% from the field, and has generated nearly all of the Lakers’ offense early on. Doncic committed to Los Angeles in the offseason when he signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension to stay with the organization long-term.
As Doncic and the Lakers prepare for Sunday’s game on the road against the Sacramento Kings, his status has suddenly become uncertain. On Los Angeles’ injury report, he was listed as questionable for the matchup with a left finger sprain.
Dan Woike of The Athletic reported that this is not a new development, as Doncic was seen Friday against the Timberwolves wearing a splint. Clearly, it did not affect his performance, but if Doncic misses any time, the Lakers could be in serious trouble.
Luka hits the injury report with a finger sprain. He was wearing a splint last night. Really struggled….. pic.twitter.com/3Bfba0H1kA
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) October 25, 2025
LeBron James is still expected to be sidelined for the next couple of weeks with sciatic nerve irritation, and the team has struggled to produce offense without Doncic on the court. If he is unavailable Sunday, Austin Reaves would likely have to step up and facilitate coach JJ Redick’s offense.
This is Doncic’s eighth NBA season, and he has already established himself as one of the league’s premier talents. A five-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, he led the league in scoring during the 2023–24 campaign and was named Rookie of the Year in 2018–19. With James sidelined and nearing the end of his career, Doncic is widely seen as the new face of the franchise.
He has embraced that responsibility, both on and off the court, and has made it clear that his goal is to win championships in Los Angeles. His leadership, production and commitment have energized the organization following his arrival from the Dallas Mavericks in February. As the Lakers navigate the early part of the season with key players out, Doncic’s presence becomes even more vital. For now, his availability for Sunday remains in question, and his status will continue to be monitored.
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