Lakers duo LeBron James and Luka Doncic debut against Warriors gets update from insider

NBA insider Jovan Buha gave an update about the highly anticipated debut of Lakers Luka Doncic and LeBron James against the Warriors.


Lakers duo LeBron James and Luka Doncic debut against Warriors gets update from insider

LeBron James and Luka Doncic debut against the Warriors

The entire NBA world has tightened seatbelts for the big debut of the Lakers’ new duo LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Fans cannot wait to watch the players’ on-court chemistry for the LA team. Despite being injured, the Slovenian was on the bench for the Clippers matchup just a day after his arrival. Hence, fans started speculating about his early debut alongside the veteran. An NBA insider Jovan Buha revealed the Lakers roster’s injury report against the Golden State Warriors.

Fans had their hopes high when Luka Doncic was spotted practicing with the Lakers. The image of the Slovenian beside LeBron James emerged excitement for the match-up. The 25-year-old could have played as early as Thursday against the Warriors but that idea has shut down. Unfortunately, according to the report posted by Buha, Doncic is out due to left calf strain. The fans have to wait some time more to watch the player in purple and gold.

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The fans might not see LeBron James against Stephen Curry as well, as the leading scorer was listed as probable. Left foot injury management was added as the reason. However, it is widely known that James regularly plays through minor injuries. There is a high chance the 40-year-old would be on the court. Considering the on-court rivalry between the two teams, Doncic’s debut against Curry’s squad would have been a treat for fans.

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Along with Doncic, his fellow addition Maxi Kleber is also listed as out. The Lakers debutants are battling injuries and might need some time to adjust. Warriors on the other hand have also gone through some changes. The team had eight players out against the Jazz. Following Doncic’s footsteps, Jimmy Butler is also less likely to play on Thursday.

JJ Redick gave an update about Luka Doncic’s debut for the Lakers

From changing his home city of seven years to teammates, Doncic has gone through many transitions with this trade. Coming to California, the Slovenian also has to play under his former teammate JJ Redick. The duo played in Dallas during the 2020-21 Redick’s final season. Years later, the pair practiced together for the first time as HC and player for the Lakers.

Doncic was spotted at practice since Christmas after his calf injury. The point guard worked out with the coach and even drilled a half-court shot. Witnessing his progress, Redick gave an update about the star’s potential debut. After the 45-minute session on Wednesday, the HC would like to see Doncic’s form some more in the next few days.

He’ll have some more opportunities to play live basketball, and then we’ll make a decision on Saturday. If it’s not Saturday, hopefully it’s Monday.

JJ Redick said

All things considered, it seems that Doncic will make his debut against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday. According to Redick, the star is improving and might be available in two days. The Slovenian’s debut is highly anticipated as ESPN is now broadcasting the game. The network had Suns vs. Jazz on the list instead.