Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided a positive update on superstar Luka Doncic on Thursday, revealing that the Slovenian sensation is in “relatively good spirits” as he continues his rehabilitation from a Grade 2 left hamstring strain in Spain.
Speaking during his pregame address ahead of the Lakers’ matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Redick disclosed that he had spoken with Doncic, who remains in Europe, just before the team returned to Los Angeles. The coach’s comments offered a welcomed dose of optimism for Lakers fans navigating a challenging stretch without two key contributors.
Doncic sustained the injury during last week’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, an injury that has sidelined the six-time All-Star for the remainder of the 2025-26 regular season. The team and Doncic’s medical staff cleared him to travel overseas for specialized treatment aimed at accelerating his recovery in time for the NBA Playoffs.
Redick stopped short of revealing specifics on the length of Doncic’s stay in Europe but emphasized the forward’s strong mindset. “I’m not gonna share how long he’s going to be over there, but I think he’s in good spirits,” Redick said in recent comments. “I think he’s, in my conversations with him, he’s motivated to do everything possible.”
The update comes as a sigh of relief for the Lakers organization and fanbase. While the exact timeline for Doncic’s return remains uncertain—with typical recovery for a Grade 2 hamstring strain ranging from three to six weeks—the Slovenian superstar is reportedly attacking his rehab with determination. His absence has been felt deeply, especially alongside Austin Reaves (oblique), forcing the team to lean heavily on veteran leadership.
Despite the injuries, the Lakers have secured a playoff berth and currently sit with a 50-29 record, holding the fourth-best mark in the Western Conference entering Thursday’s contest against the Warriors. LeBron James continues to anchor the squad, guiding a resilient group through the final stretch of the regular season.
Doncic’s move to seek treatment in Europe has drawn some debate among observers, but the priority remains clear: positioning the high-scoring playmaker for a potential impact in the postseason. For now, the focus shifts to the supporting cast as Los Angeles pushes toward the playoffs, with hopes that their star will rejoin the fray when it matters most.
As the Lakers navigate life without their dynamic duo, Redick’s insight into Doncic’s mental state serves as an encouraging sign that the team’s championship aspirations remain very much alive