LOS ANGELES — Luka Doncic is set to rejoin the Los Angeles Lakers with full intensity, marking a welcomed return post-injury.
Coach JJ Redick indicated that there should be no minute limitations for Doncic as he continues to integrate into the team after a careful ramp-up during his initial games.
Doncic is anticipated to make his third appearance for the Lakers when they face off against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night.
The Slovenian talent has been sidelined for approximately six and a half weeks due to a strained left calf, an injury he sustained on Christmas while playing for the Dallas Mavericks.
Prior to the All-Star break, Doncic participated in the last two games for the Lakers, although his total court time was limited to just 47 minutes as the coaching staff cautiously reintroduced him into the gameplay.
The time off during the All-Star festivities provided him added recovery time, enabling him to return at a better readiness level.
“He’ll be fine,” Redick expressed to members of the press after the Lakers’ first practice upon returning from the break.
“That extra five or six days during the All-Star break was beneficial for him. His minutes will increase on Wednesday, and I don’t foresee any restrictions moving forward.”
Doncic was acquired from the Mavericks in a blockbuster trade on February 2, which saw Anthony Davis move to Dallas, reshaping both teams significantly.
LeBron James’s status remains uncertain ahead of the matchup against the Hornets, as he missed the last game before the All-Star break and was also absent from the midseason game, concluding his streak of 20 consecutive All-Star appearances.
The 40-year-old star is currently dealing with discomfort in his left foot and ankle.
Due to rescheduling for a game impacted by severe wildfires in the Los Angeles area, the Lakers and Hornets are returning to action earlier than other NBA teams.
Redick and his family faced personal losses in those wildfires, highlighting the effects of this disaster on the community.
As they resume play, the Lakers are set for a challenging stretch with three games in four days, starting with a matchup in Portland on Thursday and then heading to Denver on Saturday.
