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Everyone is waiting to see LeBron James and Luka Doncic play together in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform after the Lakers swung the massive trade to get Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks for Anthony Davis. Those fans will have to wait a little bit longer for that, as Doncic isn't expected to make his Lakers debut until Monday night against the Utah Jazz.
Now, Lakers fans may have to watch their favorite team play on Saturday without both Doncic and James. On Friday, James was downgraded to doubtful against the Indiana Pacers due to left ankle soreness, according to NBA insider Marc Stein.
As a result, James should be healthy and ready to go for Doncic's debut if he does indeed suit up on Monday night. The former Mavericks star hasn't played since straining his calf on Christmas Day, so it may take him a while to shake off the rust and get back in game shape. Regardless, he is still skilled enough to put up big numbers even while working through the kinks.
Saturday won't be easy for the Lakers without both of their stars if James is indeed unable to go. The Pacers have won seven of their last 10 games and are up to fourth place in the Eastern Conference, so knocking them off without James and Doncic will be a chore. However, the Lakers have won eight of their last 10 and four in a row, so JJ Redick and company will be coming into this one with plenty of confidence no matter who is suiting up.
The Lakers will be focused on holding their current position in the top six in the Western Conference as they finish up the last few games before the All-Star break and coming out into the home stretch of the season. If the Lakers can stay out of that play-in mix and build some chemistry between Doncic, James, Mark Williams and the rest of the team, they could be a very dangerous opponent for any team out west in the playoffs.