Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Luka Doncic's Injury Status Gets Key Update Following Lakers Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Feb 4, 2025 1:09 PM ET

Now that the shock from the blockbuster trade has dissipated, fans are eager to see LeBron James and Luka Doncic play together as the newest superstar duo of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Doncic hasn't played since Christmas Day due to a calf injury. He played only 16 minutes in the Dallas Mavericks' 105-99 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. He tallied 14 points and five rebounds.

Despite the 25-year-old guard's health status, the Lakers jumped the gun and agreed to acquire him in a three-team deal with the Mavericks and the Utah Jazz.

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka on Tuesday said they are incorporating Doncic's sports performance team into their training staff, acknowledging the All-Star playmaker's trust in his hired personnel will help speed up his recovery.

"They're working together as we speak about the return of play for him," said Pelinka during Doncic's introductory press conference with the Lakers.

"We have 5-on-5 scheduled tomorrow for Luka, and we're gonna take it one day at a time, just to make sure that the calf injury is in a good and safe place."

Doncic had proven to be a relatively durable player in previous seasons, suiting up in at least 65 games in each of the last four campaigns.

"I will truly say that at this point, he's day to the day, we're going to take it one step at a time," added Pelinka, with Doncic nodding beside him.

"But if the days go well and Luka feels good and confident, he'll be in a game soon."

He also stressed that they closely collaborate with their players when it comes to their health, underscoring the stringent process of the Lakers' medical staff.

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

More must-reads: