The Los Angeles Lakers have been riding a rollercoaster lately, winning just 10 of their last 22 games-a stretch marked by injuries, inconsistency, and a rotating cast of contributors. But on Sunday night, they got a much-needed boost, both in the standings and on the court, with the return of some key pieces in a 110-93 win over the Toronto Raptors.
Luka Dončić, Deandre Ayton, and Jaxson Hayes were all back in action after missing Saturday’s loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Austin Reaves remained sidelined, but even with a short bench, the Lakers looked more like themselves-more connected, more competitive, and more complete.
That said, Dončić’s health remains a storyline to watch. He’s been dealing with a lingering groin issue, the same one that kept him out against Portland.
And while he suited up Sunday, it was clear he wasn’t at 100%. After the game, when asked how the groin felt, Dončić offered a typically understated response: “It’s OK, not bad.”
Pressed further on whether the injury is affecting his play, he acknowledged, “Yeah, maybe a little bit. But obviously I’m gonna try to play through it.”
That’s vintage Dončić-gritty, determined, and unwilling to sit unless absolutely necessary. It’s the kind of mentality that’s earned him respect around the league, but also one that raises questions about long-term durability, especially as the Lakers gear up for a grueling stretch.
His performance on Sunday reflected the physical toll. Dončić went just 8-of-23 from the field, though he did knock down five of his 12 three-point attempts.
Compare that to his outing on Thursday against Charlotte, where he shot a scorching 15-of-26 overall and 6-of-11 from deep. The difference in efficiency is noticeable, and while it’s hard to draw a straight line from injury to shooting percentage, it’s clear that the groin issue is at least a factor.
Still, even a less-than-fully-healthy Dončić brings immense value. His presence alone changes how defenses operate, and his ability to stretch the floor and create in isolation gives the Lakers a fighting chance on any given night.
Now, the challenge ramps up. The Lakers are about to embark on an eight-game road trip, starting Tuesday against the Denver Nuggets-a team they’re chasing in the Western Conference playoff picture. It’s the kind of stretch that can define a season, especially for a squad still trying to find rhythm and consistency.
Health will be the key. The Lakers can’t afford to limp through this trip-not in a Western Conference where the margins are razor-thin and every game feels like a playoff preview. If they’re going to climb the standings and build real momentum, they’ll need Dončić as close to full strength as possible, and they’ll need their supporting cast to step up in a big way.
The good news? Sunday’s win showed flashes of what this team can be when the pieces are in place. Now it’s about staying healthy, staying focused, and stringing together the kind of performances that turn a rocky season into a dangerous playoff push.