Luka Dončić Reflects on Missed Opportunities with the Lakers

As the 2026-27 NBA season approaches, Luka Dončić finds himself as the standout player in Los Angeles, following LeBron James’ move to the Philadelphia 76ers.

Initially, there were high hopes for the Lakers, with many expecting to add another championship trophy to their collection. Unfortunately, those aspirations didn’t materialize.

Dončić feels that last season could have been different, if not for circumstances he attributes to himself. He believes he had a solid team that could have contended for the title.

On April 2, when the Lakers boasted a remarkable 16-2 record, they faced a formidable challenge from the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was a big moment, especially for Dončić, who had been performing exceptionally well and was even in the running for the MVP award.

However, the game turned out to be a significant setback. The Thunder overwhelmed the Lakers, winning decisively, 139-96. To add to that, Dončić experienced a hamstring issue in the second quarter but chose to stay in the game instead of taking a precautionary break. Unfortunately, this choice led to a Grade 2 hamstring strain, sidelining him not just for the conclusion of the season but also for the playoffs.

Reflecting on that decision, Dončić said, “When it comes to my spirit of trying to win, I am just stubborn. I felt a little bit in the first half that I should have just stopped. I should have come out.” He expressed regret, realizing that they had a team capable of pursuing the championship together.

Now, it’s a bit bittersweet as Dončić acknowledges this could have been his last chance to win a championship alongside James, particularly if they had both been healthy during the postseason. While James was adjusting to playing a pivotal role especially with Dončić out, he managed to lead the team past the Houston Rockets. However, the Thunder proved too powerful in the next round.

In hindsight, it’s tough to speculate whether, had he been fit, the Lakers might have advanced to face the New York Knicks instead of the San Antonio Spurs in the Finals. For Dončić and the franchise, unfortunately, that answer remains elusive.