Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Lakers’ Luka Doncic addresses possible injury after season-opening loss

By Ryan Stano | Last updated Oct 22, 2025 2:22 PM ET

Heading into the season-opener against the Warriors, the Los Angeles Lakers understood that they were going to lean heavily on Luka Doncic. Doncic is going to be the focal point of the offense with LeBron James out for the next few weeks.

Doncic didn't disappoint, putting up a 43-point double-double in the game. Unfortunately for the Lakers, it was still a loss at home. Doncic played most of the second half, logging 41 total minutes.

In the fourth quarter, Doncic appeared to grab near his groin area, wincing as he did. He did finish the game, but he was asked if there was a possible injury after the game during his postgame news conference. He gave an answer that might concern Lakers fans.

Lakers guard Luka Doncic isn't completely sure about his possible groin injury

Doncic responded that the injury didn't seem to be a big deal, but he wasn't definitive in his response.

Luka Doncic said it’s “probably nothing” when asked about a potential groin issue during Tuesday’s game:pic.twitter.com/qJ99dWqE2K
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) October 22, 2025

"Yeah, it's probably nothing. Just felt a little bit because my hip went that way a little bit. Probably nothing."

Doncic has had a history with injuries, including before the Lakers made the league-altering trade for him last season. He had a calf issue that caused him to miss the first few games in Los Angeles after he was sent to the Lakers.

Part of the reason why Doncic decided to get into such good shape before the season was to avoid these kinds of injuries. He wants to be more available for the Lakers this season.

With LeBron James dealing with sciatica, any injury to Doncic would be catastrophic. The Lakers' offense was completely lost without Doncic in the game against Golden State. Without James to help him out, things would get even worse.

The Lakers don't play again until Friday, so Doncic will have three days to make sure nothing is actually wrong with his groin. JJ Redick will certainly make sure he is careful with his star player until the next game rolls around.

Ryan Stano

Ryan Stano has been covering sports since 2017 with a focus on the NFL, NBA, and College Football. His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, FanSided, and Yahoo. He is an Ohio State graduate with a passion for the Buckeyes, Indianapolis Colts, and Indiana Pacers.

More must-reads: