The LA Lakers are all set to lock horns in an interconference match against the Indiana Pacers and it looks like Luka Doncic might still not be available to make his debut for the former. The 25-year-old has been ruled 'out' on the team's injury report and is still recovering from a left calf strain.
Will Luka Doncic make his LA Lakers debut against the Indiana Pacers?
It is believed that Luka Doncic will not be available for the clash against the Pacers but he might make his debut on Monday against the Utah Jazz. Doncic recently took part in 5-on-5 practice without having any issues signaling that is return to the court is near.
Probably more likely Monday, Lakers coach JJ Redick said on Doncic's potential debut. No commitment made on anything, but probably trending more toward Monday. All is well. All is positive. Hopefully we get the word at some point in the next few days that he is going to play. We all want to see him in a Laker uniform.
The Slovenian international has been sidelined since last year's Christmas Day when the Dallas Mavericks took on the Minnesota Timberwolves. Doncic suffered a left calf strain during that match that has kept him out of the action. However, the five-time All-Star has made progress when it comes to his recovery without having any issues.
On Friday, February 7, the Lakers shared a video of Doncic where he is seen working on his 3-point shooting alongside a couple of trainers. It's good news for the fans as they will get to see the superstar return to action soon.
Even the coach of the Lakers, JJ Redick knows the buzz around Doncic's debut but mentioned that the team will not rush his return to the court.
We want him to feel confident, Redick said. We want our medical staff to feel confident. We don’t want to rush anything here. I think we’re all anticipating that. I know the fans are anticipating that, and certainly our players and our coaching staff are anticipating that.
Where to watch LA Lakers vs Indiana Pacers match?
The LA Lakers vs Indiana Pacers match will take place on Saturday, February 8 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The game is scheduled to start at 4 pm EST (1 pm PT).
The LA Lakers vs Indiana Pacers match will be broadcast live on Spectrum SportsNet and FanDuel Sports Network in local markets. The live streaming will be available on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).