Luka Doncic Injury Update: Doctor Reacts to Europe Treatment Decision

Recovery timeline could be key factor as Lakers approach playoffs without star player.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:23am

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Luka Doncic's decision to seek specialized treatment in Europe for his Grade 2 hamstring strain could play a pivotal role in determining the Los Angeles Lakers' postseason outlook. According to sports physical therapist Dr. Evan Jeffries, seeking treatment in Europe may indicate Doncic is pursuing rehabilitation methods not widely available in the United States, which could potentially accelerate his recovery timeline. However, this aggressive approach also raises questions about the risk of further injury if Doncic returns too quickly.

Why it matters

Doncic's absence due to the hamstring injury has already impacted the Lakers, who fell to the Dallas Mavericks in their first game without him and fellow injured player Austin Reaves. The Lakers are currently tied for the 3rd seed in the Western Conference, and Doncic's recovery timeline could ultimately shape their playoff ceiling.

The details

Doncic has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 (partial tear) hamstring strain, an injury that typically requires 4-6 weeks of recovery. However, Dr. Jeffries noted that if the European treatment proves effective, there is a theoretical pathway for a quicker return - potentially 2-3 weeks, in time for the first round of the playoffs. The Lakers are expected to take a measured approach, balancing Doncic's long-term health with the team's immediate playoff goals.

  • Doncic suffered the hamstring injury in a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
  • The first round of the NBA playoffs is scheduled to begin in approximately two weeks.

The players

Luka Doncic

A star player for the Los Angeles Lakers who is currently sidelined with a Grade 2 hamstring strain.

LeBron James

A veteran player for the Los Angeles Lakers who has had to shoulder more of the offensive burden in Doncic's absence.

Dr. Evan Jeffries

A sports physical therapist who provided an outside medical perspective on Doncic's injury and decision to seek treatment in Europe.

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What they’re saying

“Likely means he is getting treatment that is not offered in USA.”

— Dr. Evan Jeffries, Sports Physical Therapist

“If this cuts his healing time in half... theoretically he could be back in 2-3 weeks in time for the first round of the playoffs.”

— Dr. Evan Jeffries, Sports Physical Therapist

“Is Luka willing to risk further injury for the Lakers?”

— Dr. Evan Jeffries, Sports Physical Therapist

What’s next

The Lakers are expected to take a measured approach, balancing Doncic's long-term health with the team's immediate playoff goals. The first round of the NBA playoffs is scheduled to begin in approximately two weeks, putting pressure on both the player and the organization to explore all available recovery options.

The takeaway

Doncic's decision to seek specialized treatment in Europe for his hamstring injury could have a significant impact on the Lakers' postseason outlook. While an accelerated recovery timeline could be beneficial, it also raises concerns about the risk of further injury if Doncic returns too quickly. The Lakers will need to carefully weigh these factors as they navigate the playoffs without one of the league's most dynamic players.