Fans are buzzing. Analysts are making last-minute adjustments. Even ESPN is shifting things around. Then again, if you’ve been following college basketball, you’d know that they have been rescheduling programs around Luka Doncic’s Lakers debut. But back to the topic at hand, the Slovenian superstar hadn’t played since Christmas because of a calf strain.

But now? He’s finally close to returning. And with the Purple & Gold set to take on the Utah Jazz on Monday, all eyes are on the latest injury report. So, what’s the big update?

Having dropped their official injury report for the game against the Jazz, Doncic is in the questionable list. Originally, he was expected to debut Saturday against the Pacers. But at the last minute, the Lakers decided to wait. They’re being extra cautious, giving him a few more days to make sure he’s 100% ready.

And honestly, that’s a smart move.

The 5x All-Star’s recovery has been a process. And the Lakers aren’t thinking about one game. Rob Pelinka & Co. are thinking about the playoff push. Luka Doncic first injured his left calf on Christmas Day in what turned out to be his final game with Dallas. It’s been over six weeks. They’re not rushing this.

Other than him, Bron is also on the injury report questionable with left ankle soreness, while Austin Reaves is probable as he deals with a left elbow contusion. Christian Wood and Cam Reddish remain out, and Dalton Knecht is also listed as questionable due to personal reasons.

Although … it’s not just ESPN, Purple & Gold loyalists who are impatient.

LeBron James might just be the most excited of all! During conversations about teaming up with one of the league’s top young superstars, LeBron made it clear—he can’t wait for Luka’s debut.

“I’m looking forward to it. I can’t wait,” the Lakers superstar said. “Everything that I do on the floor, he just has the ability to do it or even do it better. That’s how great he is. Even at a young age, at 25, he’s such a unique player, special player, generational talent. So be super appreciative to be able to share the floor with him and then watch him do his thing.”

That’s high praise coming from the ‘Akron Hammer’ himself!

Sure, Doncic’s played with plenty of All-Stars over the years. But this is different. Doncic is special. People have been comparing him to LeBron for years. Their basketball IQ? Elite. Their passing and court vision? Off the charts. Put them on the same team, and you’ve got one of the most dynamic duos the NBA has ever seen.

ESPN’s Bold Move: Betting Big on Luka’s Lakers Debut

The hype around Doncic’s debut is so real, it’s even messing with national TV schedules. ESPN originally picked up Lakers vs. Pacers on Saturday, fully expecting Doncic to play. But then? He got ruled out. Instead, Austin Reaves went off for a career night and stole the show.

Now, ESPN is making another big move. They’re shifting Lakers vs. Jazz to primetime.

Clearly, they don’t want to miss Luka’s first game in a Lakers jersey. And funny enough, the Jazz actually got bumped off national TV earlier this season when their game against the Suns was replaced by… yep, Lakers vs. Pacers! Now? They’re back in the spotlight. And this time, they’re hoping Doncic actually plays.

The Lakers are already on fire, running high on a five-game winning streak. But adding Doncic to the mix? That takes things to a whole new level. If he steps on the court Monday night, it’s gonna be a must-watch moment. His first game in Purple & Gold threads. His first game alongside LeBron. Under the bright lights of a national broadcast.

ESPN is banking on it. Fans are ready. The Lakers are waiting. Now, the only question is: Will Monday be the night?