The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a critical juncture in their 2025-26 campaign as a troubling injury report has emerged regarding superstar Luka Doncic. According to recent reports from Heavy Sports and LeBron Wire, the 26-year-old guard is currently playing through “a lot of pain” as the team navigates a grueling January schedule.
Doncic, who has carried a massive offensive burden since joining the Lakers, is reportedly struggling with multiple physical setbacks. Sources indicate that the former Dallas Mavericks star is dealing with a lingering left elbow injury alongside “nagging” pain in both of his legs. Most concerning are the reports of “sharp” discomfort in his legs, which has visibly impacted his trademark explosiveness when attacking the rim.
Despite undergoing around-the-clock treatment to manage the inflammation and soreness, Doncic has reportedly been adamant about not sitting out. His determination to stay on the floor stems from a sense of necessity; the Lakers’ roster has been decimated by injuries to other key rotation players, including Austin Reaves (calf strain), Rui Hachimura, and Gabe Vincent. Without these contributors, the Lakers’ depth is paper-thin, forcing Doncic and veteran LeBron James to shoulder even heavier minutes.
While Doncic continues to put up staggering numbers—leading the league with an average of over 33 points per game—the physical toll is beginning to show in his efficiency. Observers have noted that his three-point shooting, currently sitting at 32.2%, is among the lowest marks of his career. Many of his attempts from beyond the arc have fallen short, a classic sign of a player lacking the necessary power and lift from his legs.
The Lakers’ defensive performance has also mirrored this physical decline. The team currently ranks near the bottom of the league in defensive rating, a slide that stands in stark contrast to their top-10 offensive output. With Doncic physically limited on the perimeter, the Lakers have struggled to contain elite guards, leading to a recent stretch where they lost four of six games.
The road ahead does not get any easier. The Lakers face a dense January calendar featuring 15 games and multiple back-to-back sets. While Doncic’s toughness has earned him further admiration from the fans and his teammates, the long-term risk is undeniable. Head coach JJ Redick and the training staff are in a precarious position: resting Doncic could lead to a slide in the Western Conference standings, but playing him through significant pain could jeopardize his health for a deep playoff run.
As the February trade deadline approaches, the pressure is on the Lakers’ front office to find reinforcements that can alleviate the pressure on their battered superstar.
