On Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers etched out a 116-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, thanks to Austin Reaves' game-winning shot. As a result, they are off to a 3-2 start with both LeBron James and Luka Doncic out on the injured list.
However, head coach JJ Reddick hinted at when both are expected to return, per Dave McMenamin of ESPN. He didn't provide a specific date, but said it would likely be the second or third week of November.
Additionally, Reddick says that Doncic could return within the “next couple of games.” In early October, it was announced that James would miss the start of the season due to right-sided sciatica. Meanwhile, Doncic is out due to a finger and leg injury.
James is beginning his 23rd NBA season and seventh season with the Lakers. Last year, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Also, Doncic is entering his first full season with the Lakers. After being traded by the Mavericks, Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game in Los Angeles.
This past summer, Doncic was dominant at EuroBasket and signed a $165 million contract extension.
Last season, the Lakers reached the first round of the playoffs before losing, ironically, to the Timberwolves in five games.
LeBron and Luka, a fierce Lakers duo
When both are healthy, they are virtually unstoppable. Both complement each other's games really nicely. LeBron and Luka are explosive in their own right and have the same versatile style.
Recently, James has spoken highly of Doncic as a “f—— great guy!” as well as a “savant”.
Altogether, they both have great court vision, are tremendous playmmakers, and each posses an extremly high basketball IQ.
For all the talk about LeBron's eventual retirement, he doesn't plan to slow down anytime soon. Plus, instead of wanting to win with Bronny, he may want to win with Luka.
