Luka Doncic Cleared to Play as Lakers Face Knicks at Madison Square Garden
The highly anticipated NBA matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Madison Square Garden will feature star guard Luka Doncic after he was cleared from the injury report. Much of the pre-game speculation had centered on Doncic's availability following his appearance on the injury list earlier in the week due to ankle soreness.
Injury Report Update: Doncic Available Without Restrictions
The latest update from the Lakers' medical staff has removed all uncertainty surrounding Doncic's status. He is now listed as available with no injury designation, indicating that he successfully passed the team's pre-game evaluations and is expected to take the court. This development comes as a relief for Lakers fans, as Doncic had been marked as questionable after suffering a fall during a game in Cleveland.
The Lakers' injury report no longer includes Doncic, suggesting that his recent ankle issues have been resolved. Medical tests confirmed that the problem was limited to manageable soreness rather than any serious ligament damage. Doncic himself acknowledged after the incident that he was not at full health, leading the team to reduce his practice workload as a precautionary measure.
Key Lakers Injury Notes for February 1, 2026
- Luka Doncic: Available (no injury reported)
- Austin Reaves: Questionable (left calf strain)
- Bronny James: Questionable (left lower-leg soreness)
- Adou Thiero: Out (right MCL sprain)
Doncic's clearance ensures that the Lakers' starting lineup remains intact, though uncertainties persist regarding Reaves' availability, which could impact backcourt rotations.
How Doncic's Ankle Injury Occurred
The ankle concern originated during a game in Cleveland when Doncic attempted a step-back three-pointer from the left wing. As he hopped backward, he slipped off a raised section of the court near the sideline, resulting in a fall that caused visible discomfort. Team medical staff assisted him off the floor, and subsequent examinations confirmed left-ankle soreness without any structural damage.
Treatment protocols and lighter practice sessions facilitated his recovery, allowing him to avoid missing additional game time. His removal from the injury list signals that the ankle is now ready for normal basketball activities.
What "Available" Means for Doncic's Role Against the Knicks
With no injury restrictions, Doncic is projected to start and assume his usual responsibilities as the Lakers' primary playmaker. Game previews anticipate him leading both teams in usage rate, likely logging over 30 minutes of action where he will serve as both a scorer and facilitator. His presence enables the Lakers to execute their offensive schemes without adjustments for a shortened rotation.
Key Factors to Watch During Lakers vs Knicks
- How Doncic's left ankle responds during dynamic movements such as planting, pivoting, and directional changes
- His minutes distribution and usage patterns, particularly if Austin Reaves is limited or unavailable
- The Knicks' defensive strategies against screens and physical play targeting Doncic
In summary, Luka Doncic is set to play against the New York Knicks, and barring any last-minute changes, the Los Angeles Lakers will have their star playmaker on the floor at Madison Square Garden. This development adds significant intrigue to what promises to be a compelling NBA showdown.
