International basketball carries unique pressures- especially when you’re Luka Dončić. The Slovenian superstar shoulders expectations heavier than any European player today. His 23.6/8.4/7.5 career averages for Slovenia aren’t just stats; they’re the living proof of how crucial he is to the Slovenian National Team. But when Dončić watches instead of playing, things going downhill is never out of option.

The tension peaked during Slovenia’s EuroBasket prep tour. After a fiery 19-point debut against Germany that showcased both his leaner physique and trademark intensity, coaches opted for caution. “He cannot be at his peak now”, coach Aleksander Sekulic warned, hinting at managed minutes. But what happens when Slovenia’s captain is off the paint? The answer unfolded in brutal fashion against Lithuania.. with Dončić reduced to a horrified spectator.

The defining moment came via Luka Updates on X. “Luka Dončić watching his Slovenian teammates play vs Lithuania while resting this game. (Slovenia is losing by 35 points at the moment of posting this)”. The attached video showed Dončić facepalming courtside, his expression oscillating between disbelief and fury as Lithuania’s lead ballooned. His body language screamed what was visibly true: Slovenia’s offense was failing without him.

This wasn’t planned bench therapy. It was a necessity. Dončić sat out the second straight preparation game under coach orders. Sekulic’s earlier comments framed the decision: “He is not the real Dončić yet… The most important thing is that he is very motivated.” The leaner Dončić (down 15+ lbs this summer) needs gradual conditioning before EuroBasket’s peak. But watching Slovenia’s collapse tested that patience visibly.

Dončić’s frustration mirrors Slovenia’s precarious reality. Without him, they’re not just failing- they’re directionless. As the Lithuania loss is proving, his presence isn’t just star power; it’s survival. Similar are the thoughts of the fans who took to the post to let their feelings known.

Fans dissect Luka’s pain and Slovenia’s future

The viral clip sparked immediate debate about Dončić being benched, and the practicality of that decision. Some questioned if his talents were wasted on an overmatched roster. “Honestly would rather see him play for Serbia” one fan argued, referencing Serbia’s stacked lineup featuring Nikola Jokić. The talent gap between Slovenia and other contenders might actually be real.

Pessimism about Slovenia’s EuroBasket hopes was also seen in the reactions. “Most likely won’t make it out of the group stage” predicted another, adding “Best case scenario is they make playoffs but lose to either Serbia, France, Greece or Germany”. The comment reflects real stakes: Slovenia faces Germany, Giannis-led Greece, and Jokic’s Serbia.

Sympathy emerged too, with fans recognizing the impossible load Luka Dončić carries. “That team so bad it got him missing Rui and Gabe Vincent” joked one observer, comparing Slovenia’s roster to his Lakers role players. Darker humor followed: “LMFAOOOO bro’s stressing”– acknowledging the absurdity of a generational talent reduced to facepalming helplessly.

Others defended Dončić’s reaction as justified. “I have watched his teammates…I wouldn’t be happy either” admitted a viewer familiar with Slovenia’s shaky secondary scoring. A similar comment was posted by another user which quoted- “That team so bad it got him missing rui and Gabe Vincent” implying difference in levels of the athletes that are paired with Luka across the Lakers or the Slovenian National Team.

The most resonant take came from a realist: “Carry job has to be elite for Slovenia to have a chance”. And looking at Slovenia choke tonight without Luka, it doesn’t feel far off from the truth. Dončić’s 30-point nights are Slovenia’s oxygen. Without them, the dream visibly suffocates.