Luka Dončić is returning to his Slovenian hometown of Ljubljana to begin preparations for the 2026/2027 NBA season, according to Sport Klub. The meetings with the Los Angeles Lakers' management have concluded.
The Slovenian star played in 64 NBA games this year, his third-lowest tally since joining the league in 2018. He was sidelined due to a more serious thigh injury than initially anticipated.
Dončić was out of action from April 2 and admitted after the Lakers' playoff loss to Oklahoma City that he was far from ready to return, despite seeking rehabilitation in Europe.
Before returning home, Dončić discussed the club's off-season plans and his personal summer program with the Lakers. The priority is clear: to return fully healthy and ready for his ninth NBA campaign.
Unlike previous years, the Slovenian national team will not be part of his summer schedule. Dončić has confirmed that he will miss the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, leaving open the possibility of returning for the championship in Qatar in 2027.
Luka, you're always pushing yourself to be better! But missing the qualifiers for the World Cup? That's a bold move. Do you think it was the right call for him?