For a few anxious moments on Saturday, it looked as though Slovenia’s EuroBasket hopes, and the Los Angeles Lakers‘ season outlook, might be in jeopardy.
Luka Doncic, the centerpiece of both teams’ ambitions, went down clutching his knee after a collision during a friendly against Latvia, leaving fans on edge as he limped to the locker room.
Less than 24 hours later, relief swept across both continents when Slovenia’s basketball federation confirmed the superstar had avoided a serious injury and would be back in training at the start of the week.
The scare happened in the third quarter of Slovenia’s 100-88 defeat, when a teammate inadvertently crashed into Doncic while defending a fast break.
The impact forced both players to the ground, with Doncic‘s knee taking the brunt. He grimaced in pain, attempted to walk it off, and eventually left for further evaluation.
Given his importance to Slovenia’s EuroBasket campaign and his newly signed three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers, the sight raised immediate fears of long-term consequences.
Instead, Sunday brought welcome news. Slovenia Basketball announced that Doncic would rejoin team practice on Monday, easing concerns that had rippled through the squad and his NBA franchise alike.
Signs of growth despite the scare
The incident threatened to overshadow what had been an encouraging performance from Doncic earlier in the game.
Over the summer, the 25-year-old guard has drawn attention for his improved conditioning, arriving at training camp noticeably slimmer and more mobile compared to his form at the end of the Lakers’ last campaign.
That change was on display against Latvia, not only in his offensive orchestration but also in areas of his game long scrutinized, namely defense. Often criticized for lapses on that end, Doncic looked sharper, cutting off passing lanes and forcing turnovers.
One particular sequence, captured and widely shared on social media, showed him locking down his opponent, using his size and quick footwork to force a bad pass and energize his teammates.
It was a glimpse into what many in both Slovenia and Los Angeles have been hoping for: a more complete version of Doncic, capable of dominating games on both ends of the floor.
The balancing act of international duty
While Slovenia celebrated the positive update, the incident highlighted an ongoing tension between international competition and NBA commitments.
For Doncic, representing his country has always been a source of pride, but for the Lakers, his summer workload carries inherent risk.
Allowing their star guard to compete at EuroBasket gives him invaluable experience and momentum ahead of the NBA season, but injuries – even minor ones – are an unavoidable part of the conversation.
This latest scare underscored that delicate balance. The Lakers‘ investment in Doncic‘s future makes his health paramount, but for Slovenia, his presence could be the difference between an early exit and a deep run in the tournament.
Slovenia’s coaching staff has insisted that his workload will be managed carefully, though the desire to compete at the highest level remains a powerful motivator for Doncic.
High stakes for Slovenia and the Lakers
For Slovenia, Doncic‘s leadership will be tested more than ever. The team is not only counting on his scoring and playmaking but also on his defensive commitment and ability to set the tone.
With EuroBasket drawing closer, every minute of preparation is vital, and Doncic‘s swift return to training is seen as a boost for morale and strategy.
On the NBA side, the Lakers are entering a crucial season of their own. Fresh off signing Doncic to a massive extension, the franchise is betting heavily on his ability to lead them back into championship contention.
His improved conditioning, coupled with signs of defensive progress, have generated optimism. Still, his availability remains the most critical factor, and Saturday’s brief scare served as a reminder of how fragile those hopes can be.
As Slovenia resumes preparations, Doncic‘s return to the practice floor will be watched closely by fans, teammates, and executives alike. For now, the update has shifted the narrative from panic to cautious optimism.
If Doncic can maintain his improved conditioning and continue to elevate his defense, Slovenia could enter EuroBasket as a dark horse, while the Lakers may feel more confident that their franchise cornerstone is entering the prime of his career at full strength.
The real test begins in the weeks ahead. For Doncic, balancing national pride with NBA responsibility will remain a fine line to walk. But after this weekend’s scare, one truth is clear: both Slovenia and the Lakers can breathe easier.
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