Before tip-off in Game 3 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves, reports began to circulate that Mavericks star Luka Doncic was under the weather. Though he ultimately suited up, it was clear from the opening minutes that Doncic wasn’t his usual self. Despite LeBron James delivering a standout performance, the Lakers couldn’t capitalize and fell to 116-104 to the Timberwolves.
During the second quarter, as the Lakers trailed 34-26, cameras caught Doncic on the bench looking visibly unwell. His face appeared flushed, his eyes seemed small and tired, and his body language suggested discomfort.
Luka 🤒🤢🤧 pic.twitter.com/zPC4ocCraj
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) April 26, 2025
NBA insider Jovan Buha provided an update, reporting that Doncic had been sick throughout the day.
“JJ Redick said that Luka Doncic hasn’t been feeling well for 24 hours. He doesn’t think Doncic slept much last night. He was throwing up all afternoon going into the game. And Redick isn’t sure what caused the halftime delay to cause him not to start the second half,” Buha revealed.
Fans React To Luka Doncic’s Condition On The Bench
Observers quickly noticed something was off with the All-Star guard. Fans on social media were quick to pick up on Luka’s struggling condition, especially after seeing his expressions during timeouts.
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“Is bro sick or something? He’s off,” one fan questioned.
Is bro sick or something? He's off
— Abdūllah (@BeethovenFTW) April 26, 2025
“Damnn he looks bad,” another fan observed.
Damnn he looks bad 😭😭
— Inspiration with Lucas (@LucasBryner3) April 26, 2025
“Flu game,” another fan commented.
Flu game
— cacestbasket (@Vouigeldy) April 26, 2025
“Yeah, he’s not looking too good. He looks red af,” one user commented.
Yeah, he’s not looking to good. He looks red af
— \V/eyond (@lastsimplexity) April 26, 2025
“Damn homie… smh .. we gotch u.. rest up!” another supporter encouraged.
Damn homie… smh .. we gotch u.. rest up!
— iammarcus (@77imlab) April 26, 2025
Despite battling his illness, Doncic still managed to log 40 minutes of play, recording 17 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds on 6-for-16 shooting from the field. His resilience was notable but not enough to prevent the Timberwolves from taking a 3-1 series lead. The Mavericks will be hoping for a healthier Doncic come Game 4.
