The LA Lakers avoided a massive blow as Luka Doncic escaped a serious injury on Tuesday after veteran Marcus Smart dove into his legs for a whistle. The incident occurred in the second half of LA’s 111-103 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. Smart tried to draw an offensive foul on Jeremiah Fears, who cut to the basket off the ball for a lob.
Smart was chasing the Pelicans’ rookie. After seemingly missing Fears’ movement, Smart dove and fell right into Doncic’s legs. The Lakers’ superstar hobbled around after that contact but avoided a major injury.
Here’s the video:
Fans slammed Marcus Smart for potentially overselling the call, as it could have turned into a near-season-ending injury for Luka Doncic, jeopardizing LA’s season. Here’s how they reacted to this incident:
“Moron almost ended his season,” a fan said.
“This is how Danny green tore his acl because Joel Embiid flopped on his knees,” another said.
“That’s exactly how Bruce Brown injured Kd in Brooklyn,” one fan added.
“Marcus Stupid is going to get himself traded with all of his antics,” one fan wrote.
“Marcus DUMB,” another added.
“yall better get him off your team,” one fan wrote.
Luka Doncic ended the game without any health concerns. He had 30 points and 10 assists on 50.0% shooting as he led the team to its third straight win.
Luka Doncic also got roughed up on a charge
Luka Doncic escaped another potential injury on Tuesday. In the second half, he drew a charge on Pelicans rookie Derik Queen, nearly suffering a neck injury. Doncic also headed to the tunnel before returning to the court. At first, it appeared as though he had sustained a whiplash, but it didn’t take too long for him to shrug it off.
Luka Doncic also avoided contact with Jarred Vanderbilt, who was cautious enough to move his leg in time. That prevented him and Doncic from taking hits.
Doncic has already dealt with lingering injuries this season to his left leg and elbow. The Lakers will hope neither injuries bother him as they prepare to take on the Spurs on Wednesday on the second night of a back-to-back.
Read more: Is LeBron James Playing Tonight Against Spurs? Closer Look at Lakers Star’s Status (Jan. 7)
Read more: LeBron James Takes Shot At His Own Fans After Sharing True Thoughts on Luka Doncic
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