By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Luka Doncic is eager to resume action and debut with the Los Angeles Lakers.
In a brief rewind to the Dallas Mavericks, the 25-year-old guard talked about chatter coming out of his previous team since the blockbuster trade about a lack of focus on preparations, his weight, and more.
“That’s fine. I’ve been questioned many, many times in my life. It’s just another motive to be more prepared,” he mentioned in an interview with TNT before the clash between the Lakers and Golden State Warriors on Thursday, “I’ve been questioned a lot. So, I’m used to it.”
“It’s a business,” he added, “I’m just happy to be here. Play basketball, that’s all I want.”
“I’m use to it.”
Luka Dončić’s response to those questioning his conditioning and ability to compete. 🗣 pic.twitter.com/HUJyp5StP5
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) February 7, 2025
Sidelined with a left calf strain since the Mavs appearance on the NBA on Christmas Day of the 2024-25 Regular Season, he was expected to possibly be cleared for the upcoming edition of NBA Saturdays with his new team hosting the Indiana Pacers. Updating the status of Doncic in a pregame media session on Thursday, head coach JJ Redick moved the big date to Monday and the conclusion of a three-game homestand with the Utah Jazz visiting crypto.com Arena.
“Probably more likely Monday,” said Redick, “No commitment made on anything, but probably trending more toward Monday.”
“All is well. All is positive,” he described the Slovenian sensation joining his teammates in practice, “Hopefully we get the word at some point in the next few days that he is going to play. We all want to see him in a Laker uniform.”