The Los Angeles Lakers tipped off against the shorthanded Cleveland Cavaliers tonight, hoping to continue their road trip with a win, especially against star LeBron James’ former team. Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned, with superstar Luke Doncic exiting the game early. Here’s what happened.

With about 7:57 left on the clock in the first quarter, Doncic fired a three against defender Dean Wade, jumping backwards on one leg, like he often does. Unfortunately, he fell victim to a design flaw in Rocket Arena. While backing up, Doncic went off the court, which is raised about 4 to 5 inches above the arena’s base.

He immediately fell down, grabbing his ankle, before the team finished the possession and called a timeout, during which he was helped up and headed back to the locker room. He eventually returned later in the quarter, but he looks hobbled so far.

With about 2:30 left in the first, Doncic returned to the sideline, checking back in during a timeout at 1:32. After the timeout, reporter Jorge Sedano explained on the broadcast that Doncic and the team’s trainers tested him by making him bounce off each leg to make sure he had his strength, which was why he was back on the court.

This marked a big injury scare for the Lakers, who are already facing the loss of breakout star Austin Reaves, who is currently sidelined with a calf strain. Losing Doncic would put a lot of pressure on 41-year-old LeBron James, who is already managing his conditioning throughout the season to stay ready for the playoffs.

Doncic ended the first quarter with two points, two assists, and two rebounds, missing all four of his shots, but has since picked it up as he rounds back into shape from his early exit.

Luka Doncic to Steal Spotlight During LeBron James’ Cleveland Homecoming

Hometown hero LeBron James returning to Cleveland will always carry emotional weight, but this visit arrives with a twist. Co-star Luka Doncic is leading the Lakers into Rocket Arena playing like the most unstoppable force in the league, and LA’s road trip has quietly become a showcase for him.

The Slovenian guard is fresh off a 46-point, 12-assist performance, and had been bending defenses and dictating games in a way that feels different than earlier in the season.

LA head coach JJ Redick described Doncic as “an engine that’s fully on” following their previous game, and the Cavs game is yet another high-profile stage to prove it. While the opposing team celebrates their shared history with James, the banners, throwback jerseys, and memories, Doncic represents the present reality of the NBA.

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If this ends up being one of James’ final games in Cleveland, the symbolism becomes even deeper. One era is being celebrated, while another is actively taking control, and on a night based around nostalgia, Doncic has a chance to remind everyone that the future of the league is right in front of them.