Los Angeles Lakers fans are eager to know why Luka Dončić will not be on the court for the team in their preseason opener. Towards the end of last season, the Lakers pulled the proverbial rabbit out of the hat by acquiring Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks in return for Anthony Davis. By doing so, the Lakers found themselves yet another generational talent to aid their attempt at contending for an NBA championship.
Although the Lakers lost in the first round of the playoffs last season, they did not let that setback affect them and continued to develop and upgrade their roster throughout the offseason. While the Lakers made deals to acquire stars such as Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, Dončić represented Slovenia at the EuroBasket 2025.
Since fans saw Dončić in action on the international stage, many pondered his development to start this season. While the hope was that he would play in the preseason to improve team chemistry and dynamics, recent reports paint a different picture.
Why Are the Lakers Cautious With Luka Dončić After His EuroBasket 2025 Stint?
During an exhibition game between Slovenia and Latvia, Dončić ran into his own teammate in an attempt to play defense and ended up sustaining a right knee contusion. Although he returned for the next game and appeared to be in form, it was unclear if Dončić had completely healed or was simply playing through his injury for the sake of his country.
Knee contusions are complicated injuries, and the healing process differs from case to case. While it has been several weeks since Dončić played in an official basketball game, the Lakers’ injury report reveals that Dončić will miss the preseason opener and the Lakers’ next game against the Warriors. NBA reporter Dave McMenamin posted on social media about Dončić’s predicted absence:
“Luka Doncic is out tonight, per the Lakers.
And will not play against the Warriors on Sunday either.
LAL is being mindful of the long term with Doncic coming off EuroBasket.”
Luka Doncic is out tonight, per the Lakers.
And will not play against the Warriors on Sunday either.
LAL is being mindful of the long term with Doncic coming off EuroBasket.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 3, 2025
Dončić has yet to enter his prime and could use the Lakers’ preseason games to get a head start on his conditioning. However, one should wonder if it makes sense for Dončić to exert himself on the court when LeBron James is expected to miss most of the preseason with his glute strain.
Reactions to the Solevinan guard’s absence were mixed. While some fans were disappointed to miss watching him in action, many called it a wise move by the Lakers.
Bummer, but makes sense to give Luka as much rest as possible https://t.co/ymTHxYKc9t
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) October 3, 2025
On the positive side, given that there are more than two weeks before the official season begins, it might be best for the Lakers to give the other members on their roster minutes on the court.
That will allow JJ Redick to better understand the abilities and potential of the younger and newer members of the Lakers. Fans are left wondering what lineup the Lakers will put forth in the preseason and if James and Dončić can completely recover to have a healthy start to the 2025-2026 season.
