Just as Luka Doncic’s season was reaching its peak, the narrative around him shifted dramatically. What once looked like a near-certain All-NBA selection, and perhaps even an MVP push, has suddenly become uncertain after a costly injury halted his momentum at the worst possible time.

The Los Angeles Lakers star suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain in a heavy loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, an injury expected to sideline him for the remainder of the regular season. The timing not only impacts the Lakers’ playoff push but also jeopardises Doncic’s eligibility for postseason honours.

Lakers legend Magic Johnson was quick to react, expressing both disappointment and admiration for the level Doncic had reached before the setback.

“I’m devastated about Luka Doncic’s injury because he was having an MVP season, and he should definitely be first-team All-NBA!” Johnson wrote on X.

More to follow