Is Luka Doncic playing for the Lakers tonight? When star may make post-trade debut
In a move that caught everyone off guard as the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Dallas Mavericks have traded their star player, Luka Dončić, to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and additional incentives in a three-team trade that included the Utah Jazz. Now that the initial shock has worn off, the biggest question is whether Doncic will play in his new uniform against the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday.
The Dončić-Davis deal has left players and fans alike in a state of shock. The news was a well-kept secret, not leaked prior to the official announcement, which only added to the surprise. Dončić, who had previously expressed his desire to stay in Dallas for his entire career, sent a text to his teammates to express his gratitude. The Mavericks' decision to trade Dončić was influenced by their frustration with his habits both on and off the court, particularly concerning his conditioning, health, and behavior toward officials.
As Dončić officially arrives in Los Angeles to join his new team, the anticipation for his potential debut is dampened by the news that he is unlikely to play against the Clippers on Tuesday night due to a strained left calf, an injury he sustained in late December.
When is Luka Dončić's Lakers debut?
It has not yet been determined when Luka Dončić will make his debut for the Los Angeles Lakers after suffering a calf strain in late December, which has kept him sidelined. According to Marc Spears from ESPN, Dončić could potentially make his debut as early as February 10 when the Lakers host the Utah Jazz.
At Tuesday's press conference, Pelinka said Doncic is listed as day-to-day and the Lakers will work with the medical team to work toward having the guard play in a game soon.
Doncic is expected to participate in 5-on-5 drills on Wednesday with the Lakers.
How to watch the Lakers vs. Clippers
- Date: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025
- Time: 10 p.m. ET
- TV: TNT, TruTV
- Stream: Max
- Location: Intuit Dome (Inglewood, CA)
This article has been updated with additional information. James Williams contributed to this story.