Luka Doncic opened up about his Los Angeles Lakers trade (Image via: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images) Luka Doncic will not play when the Los Angeles Lakers face the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, February 12, 2026. The team has ruled him out with a left hamstring strain, marking his fourth straight missed game.The contest is the final game for both teams before the eight-day All-Star break. Many expected Doncic to feature against his former team, but the Lakers have decided not to rush his recovery.
Why is Luka Doncic not playing vs Dallas Mavericks (February 12, 2026)
Luka Doncic suffered the injury on February 6 during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers. He left in the second quarter after experiencing soreness in his left leg, and the issue was later confirmed as a hamstring strain.He has since missed multiple games, including a matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. The Lakers’ medical staff has opted for caution as the guard works his way back.The injury report also lists center Deandre Ayton as questionable with a separate issue, leaving the Lakers with some uncertainty in the frontcourt.
Important Game Before the Break
Even without Luka Doncic, the result matters for both teams heading into the All-Star pause.Dallas enters the game with an 18-26 record, fourth in the Southwest Division, and has a chance to close the gap in the standings. The Lakers are 32-21 and lead the Pacific Division, so a win would help them maintain their position in the Western Conference playoff race.The Los Angeles Lakers are also trying to stop a short losing streak before the break.
Lakers Likely to Share the Offensive Load
With their top scorer unavailable, the Lakers are expected to rely more on Austin Reaves and LeBron James to run the offense. The projected starters, Jake LaRavia, Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, Luke Kennard, and Kobe Bufkin, have already played together during Doncic’s absence.Reaves and James should handle most of the playmaking, while guards Bronny James, Nick Smith Jr., and Marcus Smart could see more minutes. Managing LeBron’s workload will be important as the 41-year-old continues to log heavy playing time.
Mavericks Also Dealing With Injuries
Dallas will be without Kyrie Irving, who has been ruled out because of a knee problem. Caleb Martin, Cooper Flagg, and Naji Marshall are listed as game-time decisions due to foot and ankle injuries.The Mavericks may lean on a younger backcourt that includes D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy, and Ryan Nembhard. P.J. Washington is expected to play a key role in the frontcourt.With the Lakers missing their main playmaker, Dallas has a chance to pick up a road win before the break.
When is Luka Doncic likely to return for the Los Angeles Lakers?
The Los Angeles Lakers have described Doncic as day-to-day and have not given a firm return date. There is still hope he could appear during All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles.Doncic has dealt with several injuries this season, including hamstring, ankle, groin, and leg issues. The team appears focused on protecting his long-term health rather than pushing him back too soon.Also read: Dallas Mavericks vs Los Angeles Lakers injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 12, 2026)For now, the situation is simple: Luka Doncic will not play against the Mavericks.