The Los Angeles Lakers shocked the world by trading for Luka Doncic and many fans cannot wait to see his first game with the franchise.
But what some may not remember is that Doncic is currently injured and has not actually played in a game since December 25. That is one of the reasons why Doncic did not actually make the NBA All-Star Game this season.
Doncic is currently dealing with a left calf strain injury but has also missed time due to other lingering issues including his wrist. However, after more than a month on the sidelines, he is expected to return soon.
In fact, according to ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins, his first game could come as soon as Saturday against the Pacers in Los Angeles. This would give Doncic three games before the All-Star break, including two against the Jazz.
This is aligned with reporting from Marc Stein, who indicated that Doncic was targeting a Feb. 8 return before he was traded from the Mavericks.
Other reporting from both ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Shams Charania suggested that he could wait until after the All-Star break for his first game with Los Angeles.
Their first game after the All-Star break is Feb. 19 against Charlotte in Los Angeles. If he chose this path, it would allow him an eight-week recovery window for his calf strain.
Mark Cuban’s reaction
Something else you might not remember: Mark Cuban is no longer the majority owner of the Mavericks.
So when he found out that Dallas was trading Doncic to the Lakers, he was just as surprised as the rest of us.