Thu Feb 20 05:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Lakers’ Dončić to Play Unrestricted Minutes After All-Star Break

**LOS ANGELES** – Luka Dončić is expected to play at full strength for the Los Angeles Lakers starting Wednesday night against the Charlotte Hornets, coach JJ Redick announced. Dončić, acquired in a blockbuster trade before the All-Star break, is returning from a 6 1/2-week absence due to a strained left calf. While he played in the Lakers’ final two games before the break, he was on a minutes restriction. However, Redick confirmed that those restrictions will be lifted, thanks to the extra rest afforded by the All-Star break. “His minutes will be up [Wednesday], and I don’t think there’s going to be any sort of restrictions going forward,” Redick stated.

The Lakers’ return from the break is earlier than other NBA teams due to a rescheduled game, necessitated by recent devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. Coach Redick himself was personally affected by the fires, losing his home in the Pacific Palisades.

The team faces a challenging schedule, with three games in three cities over four days. However, the focus is on Dončić’s full return. The team’s other star, LeBron James, remains questionable for Wednesday’s game due to a sore left foot and ankle. James missed the Lakers’ final game before the break and sat out the All-Star Game, ending his 20-year streak of All-Star appearances.

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