Although it’s just the preseason, it’s pivotal for rotational pieces to build chemistry with their teammates before the show finally gets on the road.
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic didn’t appear in the franchise’s first three preseason contests, but a recent announcement heading into Game No. 4 should put the franchise at ease.
“Luka Doncic plans to play Tuesday in Phoenix against the Suns,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “It will be Doncic’s preseason debut. Lakers coach JJ Redick said Doncic will play in two out of LAL’s final three preseason games.”
Redick and the Lakers’ decision to sideline Doncic for the beginning of the postseason was understandable.
The former Dallas Mavericks standout guard was a busy man during the offseason, as he not only transformed his body but also competed with Slovenia in the EuroBasket.
Doncic helped Slovenia reach the Quarterfinal round of the summer event, but suffered two concerning knee injuries in the process.
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Fortunately, it was reported that Doncic wouldn’t miss significant time with the Lakers during the 2025-26 season, but giving the five-time All-Star ample time was the correct approach to the start of the preseason.
Now that Doncic is preparing to rejoin Los Angeles on Tuesday, he should focus on learning about his new teammates’ tendencies and continue working on his conditioning ahead of his eighth NBA season.
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