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Why Luka Doncic’s leg contusion injury is a huge problem for LA Lakers
Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images

The Los Angeles Lakers have run into a major problem around superstar Luka Doncic.

Ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers vs. LA Clippers matchup, most expected the former to register an easy win over the latter.

However, in reality, the Lakers suffered a 103-88 defeat as they slipped to a 19-8 record for the season.

But that’s not even the biggest issue for the Purple and Gold, as superstar Luka Doncic suffered a leg contusion injury against the Clippers.

Luka Doncic has a history of getting injured in December

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

Right now, Doncic is the most important player for the Lakers as he’s averaging 34.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game this season.

Now, the Slovenian superstar is expected to miss some time because of a leg contusion he suffered against the Clippers.

While the injury may not seem that serious, history suggests that Doncic’s body often starts breaking down during the month of December.

For instance, Doncic suffered an ankle injury in 2021. In 2022, Doncic suffered multiple quad and ankle injuries that ruled him out.

Speaking of 2023, he once again missed many games due to a quad injury. But the worst of them happened last year, when he missed nearly two months because of a calf strain.

Once again, Doncic has sustained an injury in the month of December, and if the Lakers aren’t careful, it could derail their entire season.

LeBron James on Luka Doncic’s injury

Doncic suffered the injury in the first half and didn’t play the final two quarters as he was seen limping off the court.

After the game, Lakers superstar LeBron James was asked about the impact of Doncic’s injury, and the 4x NBA champion gave a heartwarming response.

“The worst thing about sports is injuries. Not just basketball, but sports in general. Whoever is in uniform, we have to go out and execute at the utmost pace that we can.

“Then on the other end, we got to defend,” James said.

Right now, the Lakers are still the fourth seed in the Western Conference, but it could change quickly if Doncic is sidelined for an extended period.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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