The trade deadline has passed. The dust has settled. The headline? Luka Doncic is a Los Angeles Laker.
The out-of-nowhere trade that shellshocked the NBA world sending Doncic to L.A. and Anthony Davis to Dallas will create a ripple effect unlike any transaction the league has ever seen. Doncic has been seen courtside with the Lakers but the deal will not seem real until fans finally see him in his new threads.
Now, fans are eagerly awaiting Doncic’s debut in the purple and gold. He did not play in the Lakers’ 122-97 win over the Clippers or their 120-112 win against the Warriors.
The Lakers play next on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET. Will Doncic be available?
Here’s what to know about Doncic’s status for L.A.’s next game.
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Is Luka Doncic playing tonight?
Doncic is targeting Monday for his Lakers debut, according to NBA insider Marc Stein, so he is unlikely to play against the Pacers in Saturday’s game.
Doncic has been inactive with a strained left calf. Saturday would mark the 22nd game missed with the injury suffered on Christmas Day. This past Wednesday marked six weeks since Doncic suffered the injury, though he is reportedly on the cusp of returning to action.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka called Doncic’s status “day-to-day” during his introductory press conference on Tuesday, Feb. 4. The team has been working with its sports medicine staff to determine a return-to-play plan which began with Doncic practicing 5-on-5 this past Wednesday.
Marc Spears of ESPN confirmed Doncic should make his Lakers debut before the All-Star break, which begins after the NBA’s four-game slate on Thursday, Feb. 13.
The Lakers’ final game before breaking for All-Star is on Wednesday, Feb. 12 in Utah.
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Lakers schedule 2025
Here is the Lakers’ schedule before All-Star weekend:
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | TV channel |
| Saturday, Feb. 8 | vs. Pacers | 4 p.m. | ESPN |
| Monday, Feb. 10 | vs. Jazz | 10:30 p.m. | — |
| Wednesday, Feb. 12 | at Jazz | 9 p.m. | — |
Considering the NBA flexed the Saturday game to national television, do not be surprised if the same happens Monday if Doncic makes his debut.
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