The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for the 2025-26 season, with the goal of Luka Dončić leading them to the promised land for years to come.
Outside of a contract extension that Dončić signed just a few weeks ago, the big storyline has been his body transformation. His weight loss, strength, and endurance have all been on display, not just on social media, but also in playing for his national team in Slovenia.
While staying in basketball shape is extremely important during the offseason, there is also a higher risk of injury. The Lakers and Luka nearly suffered that devastating fate today as he was playing in an exhibition game against Latvia.
Los Angeles Lakers Star Luka Dončić Nearly Suffers Catastrophic Injury
After playing extremely well in the first half, Dončić hobbled off the floor and left the court during the second half after one of his teammates crashed into his knee.
He was able to leave the game under his own power, but was certainly limping as he left towards the locker room.
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Luckily, it appears that he did not suffer anything serious and was even trying to get back into the game.
Here was the play pic.twitter.com/E4vZRmmKfZ
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) August 16, 2025
Slovenian commentator said that Luka wants to come back to the game, but medical staff is keeping him back.
— Luka Updates (@LukaUpdates) August 16, 2025
This would have been absolutely catastrophic for the Los Angeles Lakers, who have put all of their eggs in the Luka Dončić basket. While they do still have LeBron James and some nice pieces, they have made it very clear that this is Luka’s team, and while they plan to contend this season, their priority is the future.
After the game, Luka was seen walking around the court without ice on his knee or a limp. Great sign.
Slovenia will play on Tuesday and Thursday before they take a week off leading up to the start of EuroBasket. We will know the status of Luka as those games approach and if there is any real reason for concern.
For now, Laker Nation can exhale a sigh of relief.