Luka Doncic Exits With Left Leg Contusion, Won’t Return Against Clippers
luka-doncic-sidelined-vs-clippers-with-leg-contusion
The Los Angeles Lakers announced at halftime of Saturday night’s game against the L.A. Clippers that guard Luka Doncic has been ruled out for the remainder of the contest due to a left leg contusion.
Doncic logged 19 minutes before leaving, totaling 12 points, five rebounds, two assists and four turnovers while shooting 4-for-13 from the field and 1-for-16 from three-point range. The 26-year-old appeared limited from the outset and never found his usual rhythm.
The Lakers are already without Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent, making Doncic’s absence a significant blow to the offense. Head coach Darvin Ham indicated the club will continue its cautious approach with injuries, and no timetable has been provided for Doncic’s return beyond Saturday.
With Doncic sidelined, LeBron James shifts into the primary facilitator role, while additional minutes are expected for D’Angelo Russell and other backcourt options. Los Angeles next plays Tuesday night, giving Doncic a brief window to recover.
Recent Milestone
In the Lakers’ previous outing, a win over the Utah Jazz, Doncic became just the fourth player in franchise history to record a 40-point triple-double, joining Elgin Baylor, Magic Johnson and Jerry West. It was the team’s first 40-point triple-double since Johnson achieved the feat on March 28, 1981—also against Utah.
The performance also placed Doncic alongside James Harden, Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook as the only players in NBA history with at least 10 career 40-point triple-doubles.
Source: Lakers Nation
