Luka Doncic will play limited minutes in the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason opener against the Sacramento Kings on October 8, according to head coach JJ Redick. Coming off a hamstring strain that sidelined him for the final five games of last season and kept him out of the playoffs, Doncic has been cleared to take the court but will not see heavy action as the Lakers ease him back into competition.
“We’ll play him,” Redick said on Wednesday, confirming Doncic’s availability for the first preseason game at the Golden 1 Center. However, the coach cautioned against expecting full minutes from the star guard. He explained that the preseason is more about rhythm and lineup balance than chasing wins against other teams’ G League rosters late in games. “I don’t necessarily know what the historical stats are in this. I think the biggest thing for the preseason games is getting into a rhythm, finding some lineup balance, getting into shape, and feeling good about yourself and the guys you’re playing with versus playing him 36 minutes and trying to win a game against another team’s G League team in the fourth quarter.”
Doncic’s hamstring injury hampered his 2025-26 season, and the Lakers have been cautious with his recovery. The Slovenian star reported a healthy offseason and began training camp with no restrictions. He told the media he “feels great” physically after spending time in Slovenia during the summer to improve his conditioning before joining the team’s preparations.
The Lakers are entering the new season with many changes to their roster, which presents challenges for on-court chemistry. Doncic, who has quickly become the team’s focal point, wants to speed up the process of building understanding with his new teammates. “I honestly don’t know. Some things [we’re] going to figure out quicker, some things are going to figure out later…I feel like we had a great first practice. A lot of teaching points. So I think it was a great practice,” he said.
Training camp has revealed promising signs, particularly in the connection between Doncic and new center Walker Kessler. The duo impressed during the Lakers’ mini training camp in Slovenia, displaying on-court awareness and executing highlight plays that suggested potential for strong partnership. The Lakers have 82 regular season games to develop consistency, but early chemistry will be important as they adjust to the new roster.
The Lakers’ cautious approach with Doncic in the preseason reflects both concern for his recent injury and the team’s focus on longer-term goals. Redick’s comments suggest that the Lakers are managing expectations about early results, prioritizing player health and team cohesion over winning preseason games.
Doncic’s return will be closely watched by fans eager to see the four-time MVP back in action. His status as the team’s leading figure means his minutes and performance will shape the Lakers’ prospects this season.
The latest update confirms Doncic will suit up for the preseason opener but will be limited in playing time as he regains full fitness ahead of the regular season.
According to Yahoo Sports.