Luka Doncic nears return to Los Angeles Lakers for NBA training camp

Luka Doncic is preparing to return to Los Angeles to begin training camp for the 2026-27 NBA season. After spending the summer in Slovenia, Doncic is entering the final phase of rehabilitation for a Grade 2 left hamstring strain that ended his previous season in April. He is expected to arrive in Los Angeles around September 20, ahead of the team's media day on September 28.

As the focal point of the revamped Lakers roster, Doncic's health is a primary concern for the franchise. Analysts have noted the importance of maintaining the availability of both Doncic and Austin Reaves, who also dealt with injuries last season. To bolster the roster, the Lakers have made significant moves, including the high-stakes acquisition of Walker Kessler to provide interior defense and rim protection.

While the Lakers have upgraded several positions, including adding Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes, some analysts suggest the team remains incomplete at the power forward position following the departures of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura. Reports also indicate that Doncic has undergone physical conditioning to arrive in a leaner state for the upcoming campaign.