The highly anticipated NBA showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, will be missing one of its biggest stars. Luka Doncic has been officially ruled out for the Lakers due to a left calf contusion, significantly altering the dynamics of the marquee matchup.
Why Luka Doncic is Sidelined Against the Suns
The injury occurred during the Lakers' previous contest, a 103-88 loss to the LA Clippers. In the first half, Doncic drove to the basket and took a knee to his left calf from Clippers' Bogdan Bogdanović. The impact caused immediate discomfort, forcing the Slovenian guard to exit the game and head to the locker room. He did not return to the court.
The Lakers' medical staff later diagnosed the issue as a calf contusion. Head coach JJ Redick revealed that this type of injury has been a recurring problem for Doncic this season, primarily due to repeated contact on the court. The team is reportedly considering additional leg protection for the star to mitigate future risks. Initially listed as day-to-day, the Lakers have opted for a cautious approach, holding him out against the Suns. A potential return target is set for the Christmas Day game against the Houston Rockets.
Los Angeles Lakers Injury Report Ahead of Phoenix Clash
The Lakers arrive in Phoenix with a depleted roster. Alongside Doncic, forward Rui Hachimura is out with right groin soreness and is considered day-to-day. Guard Gabe Vincent will miss his third consecutive game due to a lumbar back strain.
There is some positive news for the purple and gold. Guard Austin Reaves, who was dealing with a left calf strain, has been cleared to play after participating in a partial practice. Center Deandre Ayton, who had left elbow soreness, has returned to full practice and is available. Veterans LeBron James and Anthony Davis are not on the injury report and are expected to start.
Star-Studded Matchup Transforms Into Battle of Depth
Doncic's absence dramatically changes the complexion of the game. What was billed as a star-powered offensive spectacle now becomes a strategic battle dictated by health management and rotational depth. With the Lakers already stretched thin, the burden of primary scoring and playmaking will fall heavily on LeBron James. The team will need significant contributions from role players and the bench to compensate for the loss of their leading scorer.
The Suns are not at full strength either. Shooting guard Jalen Green remains sidelined with a right hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated in the coming weeks. Grayson Allen is also out with a foot issue. This places immense responsibility on the duo of Devin Booker and Kevin Durant to shoulder the offensive load against a compromised Lakers defense.
Without Doncic's dynamic scoring, the game's pace is likely to slow down. Each possession will carry more weight, and the battle in the paint, where Ayton will be crucial for LA, becomes paramount. This December 23rd contest shifts from a highlight-reel duel to a test of which team can best navigate its injury woes and find production from unexpected sources to secure a vital win.
