By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
After meetings with the Los Angeles Lakers front office, Luka Doncic is returning to Ljubljana to begin work ahead of the 2026-27 season, according to Sport klub.
The Slovenian superstar played 64 games this year — his third-lowest total since entering the NBA in 2018 — before being sidelined by a thigh injury that turned out to be more serious than initially expected.
Doncic had been out since April 2 and admitted after the Lakers’ playoff exit against Oklahoma City that he was never close to returning, despite seeking rehabilitation help in Europe.
Before heading back home, Doncic discussed both the Lakers’ offseason plans and his personal summer program with the organization. The priority is clear: return fully healthy and ready for his ninth NBA campaign.
Unlike previous years, Slovenia’s national team will not be part of his summer schedule. Doncic already confirmed he will skip the upcoming FIBA World Cup qualifiers, leaving open the possibility of returning for the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.