Luka Doncic Shares Update on Recovery Ahead of Injury Return

Luka Doncic sustained a Grade 2 hamstring strain back on April 2 against the Oklahoma City Thunder and has not appeared in a game since.

However, now with the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the NBA playoffs and once again facing the Thunder, fans are eagerly awaiting Doncic's anticipated return, as L.A.'s chances without him are considered slim against the defending champions.

Doncic spoke to the media on Wednesday and gave an update on where he stands in his recovery.

"Right now I'm running, but I haven't done any contact," Doncic said. "The day I did the MRI on the hamstring, the doctor told me eight weeks … I'm doing everything I can in the process, and I think we're on a good way."

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He also opened up about the frustration of being sidelined during the postseason, while expressing pride in his teammates.

"I don't think people understand how frustrating it is. All I want to do is play basketball, especially this time of year … Seeing what my team is doing, I'm very proud of them. It's been very tough just to sit and watch them play.”

Doncic revealed that at the time of his injury, doctors told him the recovery timeline would be roughly eight weeks, and he noted this is the first time he's dealt with a hamstring injury.

Because of that, Doncic said he's taking a cautious approach to his rehab, even though his desire is to return to the court as soon as possible.

"It's a tough one for me because I've come back from injuries before too soon, and it wasn't the best result,” he added. “But like I said, this is the first time I've had a hamstring injury. It's not the same as other injuries - you have to be very careful. I'm doing everything to come back: recovery, chamber, cold tub, everything I can. It's just very different from the injuries I've had before."

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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 12:07 PM.