Luka Doncic has been out of action since Christmas Day due to an injury, sparking speculation about when the five-time All-Star will debut with the Los Angeles Lakers. It appears that fans won’t have to wait much longer.

On Monday’s episode of “NBA Today” on ESPN, Marc J. Spears reported that Doncic was at the Lakers’ facility undergoing a physical as part of the major trade that moved him from the Dallas Mavericks to Los Angeles. Spears stated that Doncic could return next week, potentially in the Lakers’ home game against the Utah Jazz on Monday or their away game in Utah on Wednesday.

“I’m hearing he’s targeting next week. The Lakers play at home against Utah next Monday and on the road in Utah next Wednesday, a possible return from his calf injury,” Spears said.

Spears also mentioned that there was “a lot of disappointment and anger” when Doncic arrived in Los Angeles on Sunday night. However, those feelings quickly faded as he processed the reality of joining such a prestigious team. Doncic also had dinner with Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who had been his teammate in Dallas.

Doncic has played only 22 games for the Mavericks this season. He injured his calf during the team’s Christmas Day game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and has not played since. He is averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game.

It seems clear that Doncic did not want to be traded and is unhappy with how the Mavericks handled the situation.

Once he adjusts to the shock of being traded, Doncic will likely embrace the chance to play alongside LeBron James for a team with 17 championships. He is also in a prime position to become the next leader of the Lakers after the 40-year-old LeBron departs, making this a promising opportunity for him.