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Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic has expressed regret over his decision to play through a hamstring injury last season, admitting his stubbornness led to an extended absence that ultimately derailed the team's championship aspirations.
Speaking in an interview with Sports Illustrated, the Slovenian guard took full responsibility for aggravating the injury during a late regular-season matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder in April.
"When it comes to my desire to win, sometimes I can be overly stubborn. I felt discomfort as early as the first half and should have just stopped," Doncic admitted. "I should have taken myself out. I truly believe we had a roster capable of contending for a ring. I definitely regret that decision," the guard added.
Oklahoma City was firmly in control of the contest, holding a commanding 31-point lead at halftime when Doncic first felt tightness in his left hamstring. Instead of sitting out to protect himself, he returned for the second half. Just five minutes into the third quarter, he sustained a severe Grade 2 strain, bringing a premature end to his campaign and crushing the Lakers' title hopes.
Although the Lakers closed out the regular season with 53 wins and knocked out the Houston Rockets in the opening round of the NBA playoffs, Doncic's absence proved insurmountable. Los Angeles was ultimately swept by the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals.
Prior to the injury, the Slovenian sensation was enjoying a stellar campaign, leading the NBA in scoring with an impressive 33.5 points per game.
Now fully recovered and having learned a harsh lesson, Doncic is poised to lead the Lakers on a redemption tour in the upcoming 2026/27 season.
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