Luka Doncic is set to take on a larger role with the Los Angeles Lakers. The five-time All-NBA guard, who was recently traded to Los Angeles in a blockbuster midseason deal, is no longer on a minutes restriction and is expected to play in back-to-back games soon.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Lakers are “pleased with his progress and optimistic he’ll soon participate fully in back-to-backs.” This marks a key step for Doncic, who had been sidelined with a calf strain before the trade and has been easing his way back into the rotation.
Doncic was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks on February 2 in one of the most shocking trades in NBA history. The deal sent Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to Dallas, while Los Angeles also moved Jalen Hood-Schifino and a 2025 second-rounder to Utah as part of the three-team exchange.
The trade came as a surprise, especially for Doncic, who was not informed about the move until after it was finalized.
At the time of the trade, Doncic had not played since Christmas Day due to injury. He made his Lakers debut on February 10 against the Utah Jazz, scoring 14 points in 24 minutes in a 132-113 win. He followed that up with 16 points in a loss to Utah on February 12 and 14 points in another defeat against the Charlotte Hornets on February 19.
Doncic was then rested for the Lakers’ next game against the Portland Trail Blazers, where LeBron James led the team to victory with a 40-point performance. With Doncic nearing full availability, the Lakers will soon get their first real look at their new star pairing in extended action.
Before the trade, Doncic was averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game for the Mavericks. While his scoring has been limited since joining the Lakers, his minutes have also been restricted. Once fully integrated, Los Angeles hopes he will return to his All-NBA form.
The Lakers currently hold a 33-21 record, placing them fifth in the Western Conference. As the playoffs approach, having Doncic at full strength will be crucial for their championship aspirations.
