Injury, what? Luka Doncic turned what seemed like a potential season-altering setback into a mere footnote in the Lakers’ 110-93 victory over the Toronto Raptors. The Los Angeles Lakers got a much-needed home win by beating them 110-93. Amid a midseason slump, Los Angeles delivered a much-needed home win—powered by a rare, cohesive team effort from both superstars and role players. But the real story wasn’t just the win—it was Doncic’s return.

This almost didn’t happen if Doncic’s injury had been any more serious. But how long will he keep up this pace? Doncic himself had a medical assessment of himself.

Doncic was ruled out for the Lakers’ Saturday night battle against the Portland Trail Blazers with left groin soreness. The Lakers lost that game 132-116, underscoring the need for Doncic more than ever.

He was available against the Raptors and made every minute count. Tonight he provided both a scoring punch and a sobering update on his physical status.

After the game, he confirmed he’s not completely pain-free. “It’s okay. I’ll bear it,” he said about playing through it. He admitted the injury impacts him, “maybe a little bit,” but, “Obviously I’ll try to play through it.”

His comments suggest that JJ Redick might have to manage his workload carefully. Which they have by cancelling shootarounds for the rest of the season.

Maybe we can safely assume he’ll make himself available for Tuesday’s game against the Nuggets. Although he’s going to play through it, his injury puts the Lakers in a dicey position.

Luka Doncic’s health vital for the Lakers

Fears about how the Lakers can work without Luka Doncic manifested on the January 12 game against the Kings. Despite Doncic’s 42 points, the Lakers not only lost, but Doncic only had two points in an entire quarter after hurting his inner thigh.

Despite the discomfort, Doncic had been playing through the pain. He even scored 39 points against the Charlotte Hornets while visibly receiving treatment on the sidelines.

He was consequently ruled out against the Blazers. But JJ Redick had hopeful news before tonight’s game. The team ordered an MRI just to be safe. They came back clear and the guard who’s leading All-Star votes was able to play.

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Barring a few absences, Doncic has consistently put up MVP numbers in every game, including this one. He had 18 of his 25 points in the first half alone. LeBron James added another 24 points. Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura contributed 10 points each.

After this win, the primary focus following the contest remained on the health of the superstar guard. Though there’s no serious injury, he’s far from 100% and the fear of aggravating it looms.

He’s up against the Denver Nuggets next, who are without MVP frontrunner Nikola Jokic. Yet they’ve hustled through their limited rotation to tally a few wins. If Doncic leads the Lakers to another win, he might just cement his MVP candidacy for the season.