Luka Doncic is already sidelined for the Lakers’ second 2026 preseason game against the Golden State Warriors, and it’s because the star guard left his preseason opener limping and holding his right hamstring. This is a huge gut punch, especially after he absolutely lit up the first half of that game against the Sacramento Kings.
From “Fittest” to Frighteningly Fragile
Doncic put on a show in his preseason debut, dropping 21 points in just the first half against the Kings before he got benched for the rest of the clash. Here’s the kicker, he looked as healthy as he has been in years, even coming in at his lightest weight since his rookie season. Everyone was buzzing! But that excitement quickly turned to dread when he visibly limped and grimaced, holding his right hamstring. That’s why Lakers head coach JJ Redick ruled him out of the October 6 preseason game against the Warriors. Alarm bells are ringing, and honestly, who can blame anyone for hearing them?
Roster Shuffle and Sky-High Stakes
It’s not just Doncic, either. The Lakers’ injury list for this game is extensive. Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, Austin Reaves, Collin Sexton, and Walker Kessler are all out. This situation is giving low-end rotational players a massive opportunity to prove their worth for the regular season, with Bronny James starting alongside new signing Quentin Grimes in the backcourt, and Jaden Hardy and Dalton Knecht getting a chance off the bench. But let’s be real, the Lakers did not want to roll the dice with Doncic potentially picking up a more serious injury in a no-stakes preseason game. We’ve already seen Max Strus and Ariel Hukporti pick up major injuries in these preseason clashes. Losing Doncic, who averaged a monster 33.5 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.7 rebounds last season, is a risk they can’t afford. He’s expected to embrace an even bigger offensive role this 2026-27 season with a revamped roster and no LeBron James. So yeah, his limping in preseason is definitely not a great sign for the squad.
Now, everyone is watching to see if the Lakers will just sit Doncic for the rest of preseason. The goal? Make sure he is 100% healthy and ready to go for the Lakers’ opening night clash against the Warriors on October 21. That’s the real date that matters.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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