Lakers star Luka Dončić sparked injury fears after grabbing his hip late in Los Angeles’ season opener against the Warriors. Here’s what he said postgame, plus the latest on his status before the Timberwolves matchup.
A Scare Lakers Fans Didn’t Need
LOS ANGELES — It was the kind of moment that makes an arena go silent.
Late in the fourth quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ season opener against the Golden State Warriors, Luka Dončić grimaced, slowed to a stop, and reached for the inside of his leg near his hip. The sight immediately sent a wave of concern through Crypto.com Arena — and across social media.
Dončić, who had been sensational all night long with 43 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists, looked momentarily uncomfortable before finishing the game. His near triple-double wasn’t enough to prevent a 121–113 loss, but his performance reminded everyone why he’s already the centerpiece of this retooled Lakers squad.
Luka Dončić: “It’s Probably Nothing”
After the game, the 26-year-old star tried to calm the noise.
“It’s probably nothing,” Dončić told reporters in the locker room. “Just felt it a little bit because my hip went that way. Felt it a little bit, but it’s probably nothing.”
His tone was relaxed, even smiling at times, though the word “probably” gave Lakers fans and the coaching staff reason to keep an eye on it. According to team sources, Dončić received immediate treatment after the game but walked without a limp while leaving the arena.
Given that the injury occurred after 41 high-intensity minutes — the most of any player on the floor — slight soreness is not uncommon. Still, the Lakers medical team will continue to monitor his condition, especially with the season just underway.
Also Read : Ex-NFL Star Doug Martin Dead at 36 — Former Buccaneers RB Remembered
Lakers Leaning on Luka Dončić with LeBron Still Out
Los Angeles is already facing early adversity. With LeBron James sidelined for at least a week due to sciatica, Dončić’s presence is more vital than ever. Against Golden State, he was the heartbeat of the offense — shooting 17-of-27 from the field and dominating inside the paint (13-of-14).
Every time the Warriors threatened to pull away, Dončić responded. When Golden State opened the third quarter on a 23-9 run, it was Dončić who scored all nine of the Lakers’ points.
“Overall, 41 minutes — I like that,” Dončić said postgame, hinting at his improved conditioning.
The offseason work clearly paid off. After facing criticism last year for fitness issues, Dončić arrived this season leaner, quicker, and far more engaged defensively. His communication with teammates and willingness to battle for rebounds were noticeable upgrades from past seasons.
Still Some Areas to Sharpen
While his inside scoring was unstoppable, Dončić’s outside shot struggled to fall, going just 2-of-10 from beyond the arc. It’s an area he’s aware of and one that could define his MVP campaign aspirations if improved.
Defensively, though, Dončić looked more locked-in — contesting shots, rotating quicker, and encouraging younger teammates like Austin Reaves, who logged 36 minutes of his own.
Also Read :John Cena’s Final WWE Match SNME Presale Attracts 60,000 Fans to 20,000-Seat Arena
No Limp, Extra Rest, and What’s Next
Dončić arrived slightly late to his postgame press conference, citing time in the trainer’s room for precautionary treatment. Reporters noted that he walked normally, without visible discomfort, a reassuring sign for Lakers Nation.
With a few days off before facing the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, October 24, the Lakers have time to rest, regroup, and ensure their star guard remains in top shape. The Timberwolves, fresh off consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances, will pose another major test early in the season.
Bottom Line
The Lakers may have fallen to the Warriors, but Luka Dončić proved once again why he’s worth every ounce of hype — and concern. His dominance, poise, and leadership were on full display, and while the minor hip tweak caused a brief scare, early signs suggest no serious injury.
If Dončić’s postgame confidence is any indication, Lakers fans can breathe easy — at least for now. The real challenge begins Friday, when Los Angeles hosts the surging Timberwolves in what could set the tone for their early-season momentum.