Luka Doncic Injury Scare: Lakers Star’s Latest EuroBasket Encounter Poses Worry for Fans | NBA News – Times of India

Luka Doncic, a basketball player for Slovenia and the Los Angeles Lakers, scared fans when he got injured in a friendly Slovenia vs. Germany match. The incident took place on August 16, 2025, during Slovenia’s EuroBasket exhibition against Latvia. Thankfully, he is expected to recover quickly without any severe complications.

The injury occurred in the third quarter when Doncic’s teammate, Gregor Hrovat, accidentally crashed into Doncic’s right knee. Despite the pain, Doncic managed to walk off the court without assistance. However, his exit to the locker room did concern fans as Doncic had recently signed up for a $165 million extension.

After the incident, Doncic sat on the bench with an ice pack on his knee. Though he insisted he was fine and even tried to convince the medical staff to let him return to the game, the doctors decided to play it safe and ruled him out for the rest of the match.

Meanwhile, NBA insider Marc Stein confirmed that Doncic’s injury was diagnosed as a right knee contusion, without any signs of ligament tears, fractures, or sprains. As he was able to walk off the court on his own and no structural damage was found, both Slovenia and the Lakers expect a full recovery. The injury is not expected to impact Slovenia’s EuroBasket run or the Lakers’ season opener on October 21.

Further details about Doncic’s injury include:

– Date of Injury: August 16, 2025 (vs. Latvia, EuroBasket exhibition)
– Type of Injury: Right knee contusion (bruise)
– Severity: Minor – no structural damage
– Recovery Timeline: Short-term; not expected to miss EuroBasket or NBA season opener
– Next Evaluation: Further precautionary tests scheduled
– Impact on Lakers: Cleared to be ready for 2025–26 season start on October 21
– Slovenia Outlook: Expected to rest during friendlies; return likely for Aug 28 vs. Poland

Even while sidelined, Doncic’s competitive spirit shone through as he was eager to get back to the game. A focus on his offseason transformation, including weight loss, dietary changes, and workout routines, added to speculations of him contending for MVP honors in the upcoming NBA season.

Looking ahead, precautionary tests will be carried out to ensure Doncic’s complete recovery. Slovenia plans to rest him during the friendlies before their EuroBasket match against Poland on August 28. The Lakers also expect him to be fully ready for their 2025–26 training camp and season.

While the incident highlighted the risks NBA stars face while competing internationally, the situation is not serious. With EuroBasket and the NBA season drawing close, all eyes will be on Doncic as he continues to balance his national pride and his role in the Lakers’ team.