Luka Dončić put a scare into the Los Angeles Lakers and their fans, in addition to NBA followers, when he left Saturday’s FIBA Eurobasket exhibition between Slovenia and Latvia with what appeared to be a knee injury.
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However, Dončić was apparently all right and wanted to return to the game, so the Lakers don’t have to worry about their recent $165 million investment suffering a concerning injury as they plan a future beyond LeBron James.
Doncic was later diagnosed with a knee contusion, according to NBA reporter Marc Stein. But the injury is not believed to be serious.
The play in question occurred in the third quarter when teammate Gregor Hrovat fell into Dončić’s knee while backpedaling on defense. Dončić was planted in the lane, battling for position. Following the collision, Dončić sat down on a chair to compose himself though didn’t appear to be in visible pain. Perhaps he was thinking about how fortunate it was that he didn’t suffer a serious knee injury.
However, Dončić did leave the game and go back to the locker room, which immediately triggered the worst fears. He walked off the court without assistance but was favoring his right leg as he left.
Dončić eventually returned from the locker room and appeared to be fine, though he had an ice bag on his knee as he sat on the bench still in full uniform. He wanted to return to the game, but the Slovenia medical staff recommended against it, according to the broadcast.
The Athletic’s Dan Woike reported on social media that a source told him serious injury was avoided. Prior to leaving the game, Dončić scored 26 points in 17 minutes with 4 rebounds and 5 assists.
In addition to his max contract extension, Dončić has made headlines this summer by improving his conditioning and diet, losing “significant weight” during offseason workouts. His leaning down earned him a cover story for “Men’s Health,” and he claims to have lost 31 pounds.
Dončić and the Slovenian national team will begin official Eurobasket play when the tournament begins on Aug. 27. Slovenia will tip off against Poland on Aug. 28. Other NBA stars playing in the international tournament include Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece), Nikola Jokić (Serbia), Alperen Sengun (Turkey), Lauri Markkanen (Finland) and Kristaps Porziņģis (Latvia).
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