Luka Dončić embarks on the 2026-27 NBA season solo in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, LeBron James writes a new chapter with the Philadelphia 76ers. Many anticipated another championship for the Lakers, but it remained unattained.
Dončić shared his belief that victory was possible last season if not for an error on his part. Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Dončić managed the ball against the Atlanta Hawks with determination.
On April 2, the Lakers had an impressive 16-2 streak. They faced the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. For Dončić, it was a significant opportunity as he pursued the MVP award. However, the Thunder defeated the Lakers 139-96, delivering a sobering blow.
During the game, Dončić felt a tweak in his hamstring but continued playing. His decision led to a Grade 2 hamstring strain. This injury sidelined him for the rest of the season, including the playoffs.
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. I think we had a team that could compete for the championship. I definitely regret it.
Dončić expressed a desire to handle things differently. His absence in the playoffs forced James to step up. Although James led the team past the Houston Rockets, the Thunder eliminated them in the next round. If Dončić were healthy, the Lakers might have dueled the New York Knicks in the Finals.
The “what if” lingers in the minds of Dončić and the Lakers.
Scott Thompson provides sports coverage for Fox News Digital.
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