Luka Doncic Expresses Gratitude to NBA, NBPA Following Personal Decision Involving Daughter

Doncic thanked the Los Angeles Lakers organization for their unconditional support. 

The entire situation goes back to 2 games he missed back in December 2025.

Doncic chose to travel to Slovenia to be present for the birth of his daughter. He prioritized his family over the regular season schedule. 

Under the current collective bargaining agreement, players must hit a 65-game mark to win major honors. This rule was designed to stop load management and keep stars on the floor for fans. However, there is also an “extraordinary circumstances” exception for unique situations.

Doncic finished his regular season with 64 games. He met the exception criteria because his trip for an international birth was an unavoidable situation. The officials agreed he would have reached 65 games otherwise. 

This ruling turns all attention toward the postseason.

What This Ruling Means for the MVP Race and Lakers’ Future

Doncic is now eligible for every single award on the ballot. This includes a spot on the All-NBA teams, where he is a lock for First Team honors.

Doncic is leading the league with 33.5 points per game, along with 8.3 assists per game. Now, with voting ballots officially sent out, his impressive numbers can be weighed by the voters against those of the other frontrunners for the MVP race. 

Right now, the immediate focus is on his health and the upcoming playoffs. Doncic suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on April 2 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The injury forced him out for the rest of the regular season. 

He is currently listed as out indefinitely. The earliest we might see him back on the court is late in the first round, possibly. 

The league decision ensures Doncic’s historic performance remains on the record. Can Doncic still win the MVP for this season?

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