Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić has been diagnosed with a sprained left finger and lower leg contusion, injuries that will keep him out for at least a week, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
“Dončić will be reevaluated in approximately one week,” McMenamin reported.
Injury Timeline Could Stretch Beyond One Week
While the Lakers initially labeled the setback as short term, medical experts caution that Dončić’s absence could last longer. Dr. Evan Jeffries, an NBA and NFL injury specialist based in San Diego, noted on social media that Dončić will likely need additional recovery and ramp-up time before returning to action.
“This likely means Luka won’t be back exactly in a week — he’ll need a ramp-up period,” Jeffries wrote. “Based on the Lakers’ schedule, he could miss approximately five to ten games.”
The Lakers’ upcoming 10-day stretch includes matchups against the Sacramento Kings, Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Memphis Grizzlies. Losing Dončić for multiple games could disrupt the team’s early season momentum.
A Crushing Blow After Historic Start
The timing of the injury comes just as Dončić was showcasing MVP-level form. The Slovenian superstar had scored 49 points in the Lakers’ 128–110 win over Minnesota, avenging last season’s playoff loss.
Through two games, Dončić averaged 46.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists — the highest two-game scoring total to start a season in Lakers history.
He opened the campaign with 43 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists against the Golden State Warriors, followed by his near-50-point display against the Timberwolves. Lakers staff also praised his improved fitness and defensive commitment after a challenging previous season.
“Last year was really tough for me,” Dončić said after Friday’s win. “I just want to forget about last season. We’re gonna meet them a few more times this year — it’s going to be a war every time we play them.”
Lakers Depth Tested Without Dončić and LeBron James
Dončić’s setback adds to the Lakers’ growing list of injuries. LeBron James remains out with sciatic nerve irritation, while Maxi Kleber (abdominal strain) and rookie Adou Thiero (left knee) are also unavailable. Backup center Jaxson Hayes will miss his second straight game due to knee soreness.
That leaves Austin Reaves as the team’s main offensive weapon. The 27-year-old guard has excelled in that role before — notably last season when he scored 45 points against the Indiana Pacers in a game without both James and Dončić.
Reaves became the youngest Laker since Kobe Bryant to record a 40-point, 5-rebound, 5-assist performance, joining an elite list that includes Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, Magic Johnson, Bryant, and James.
Ayton and Smart Must Step Up
New Lakers additions Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart will be counted on to help steady the ship.
Ayton is averaging 12.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks while shooting nearly 67 percent from the field. Smart has contributed defensively with 1.5 steals per game but will need to improve his offensive output, currently at just 6.0 points per game.
Their performances will be vital in keeping the Lakers competitive during Dončić’s recovery.
Lakers Brace for Life Without Luka
Dončić’s return will depend on how quickly swelling in his finger and leg subsides. Even after clearance, he may face minutes restrictions and conditioning evaluations before resuming full play.
With multiple starters sidelined, the Lakers’ depth and resilience will be tested in a crucial early stretch of the season. Until their new franchise star returns, the burden will fall on Reaves, Ayton, and Smart — as Los Angeles hopes to stay afloat in the competitive Western Conference.
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