Luka Doncic has yet to step on the court for the Los Angeles Lakers since his blockbuster trade. While Anthony Davis made an immediate impact with the Dallas Mavericks in his debut on Saturday, Lakers fans are still waiting to see their newest star in action.
The anticipation continues to build, but his debut remains uncertain due to a lingering calf injury. The Lakers are set to face the Utah Jazz on Monday, and Doncic is listed as questionable for the game.
Initially, he was expected to return during the All-Star Game, but his timeline has shifted since joining Los Angeles. His recovery process appears to be progressing faster than expected, though he has been sidelined since suffering the injury on Christmas Day.
Before his injury and the high-profile trade, Doncic was delivering another standout season with the Mavericks. In 22 games, he averaged 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per contest.
The Lakers’ injury report features several key players facing health concerns. Maxi Kleber remains out with a right foot fracture, while Christian Wood is still recovering from left knee surgery. LeBron James is dealing with left ankle soreness and is listed as questionable. Austin Reaves is probable despite a left elbow contusion.
Mavericks’ Secretive Luka Doncic Trade Left Mark Cuban In The Dark
The Mavericks stunned the NBA world by trading Luka Doncic, which was so secretive that even the team’s minority owner, Mark Cuban, was left out of the decision-making process. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Cuban had no input in the trade and even tried to stop the sudden departure of the franchise superstar.
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“Dumont never approached him for advice. Sources say Cuban urged Harrison not to go ahead with the swap … only to find out that the deal had already been sealed with the Lakers by verbal handshake,” Stein reported.
For Dallas, losing a player of Doncic’s caliber is a massive gamble. Had Cuban maintained full control over the team, many believe Doncic would still be in a Mavericks uniform, rather than heading to Los Angeles midseason.
Also Read: Mark Cuban Jokes With Bill Gates About Dallas Mavericks Trading Luka Doncic
