Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James (23) poses with Luka Doncic (77) during the NBA basketball team’s media day in El Segundo (Credit: AP)
Luka Doncic will not take the court for the Los Angeles Lakers in their preseason opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 5, 2025. Following his extensive participation in the 2025 EuroBasket tournament with Slovenia, Doncic has decided to take a break as part of a strategic load management plan.
Reason for Doncic’s AbsenceDoncic’s absence is not because of a significant injury, even though he suffered a slight right knee contusion at EuroBasket. Throughout training camp, the Lakers’ medical staff has been closely monitoring his recuperation, adjusting his workload and administering focused therapy. Head coach JJ Redick has emphasised the value of Doncic ramping up gradually, putting his long-term health and preparedness for the regular season ahead of his immediate preseason output.
Impact on the Lakers’ Line-upThe Lakers will rely on supporting players to shoulder more scoring and playmaking duties in Doncic’s absence, which will drastically change the team’s offensive approach. Notably, a slight nerve irritation in his glute muscle will also keep LeBron James out of the game.
Marcus Smart is unable to participate due to Achilles tendinopathy, and Maxi Kleber is unable to play due to a quad injury. Adou Thiero, a rookie, is also out due to knee problems. This gives the coaching staff the chance to try out different lineups and gives younger players the chance to get important experience.
The Lakers’ choice to bench important players is indicative of a larger NBA trend in which teams are placing a higher value on players’ long-term health and performance than on the results of preseason games. Doncic should be fully recovered and ready to lead the Lakers in their pursuit of a championship by opening night or later in the preseason, according to fans.