Is Luka Doncic playing tonight vs Team USA at NBA All-Star Game? Latest update on the Team World star's injury report (February 15, 2026)

Luka Doncic is expected to play limited minutes in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game as he continues to recover from a hamstring strain. The Los Angeles Lakers guard, representing Team World, recently said he feels well enough to play “a little bit” in the event at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.He missed time before the break but avoided a long-term setback. His status adds interest to an All-Star Game that is introducing a new format this season. Even with restricted minutes, Doncic remains one of the most watched players on the court.

New format introduces USA vs. World tournament (February 15, 2026)

This year’s All-Star Game replaces the traditional setup with a round-robin tournament featuring Team USA Stars, USA Stripes, and Team World. The games will take place on February 16, starting at 5 p.m.

ET, with four contests scheduled for 12 minutes each.

Doncic’s participation stands out because of his recent move to the Lakers and his scoring ability. While he is not expected to handle a full workload, he could still provide short offensive bursts.

Luka Doncic's injury report vs Team USA for NBA All-Star Game (February 15, 2026)

Doncic strained his left hamstring earlier in February and missed the Lakers’ final four games before the All-Star break. He went through warmups during that stretch but did not play so he could focus on recovery.

A strong workout on February 13 helped clear him for the All-Star Game, though his role is expected to be controlled. Doncic joked that fans should not expect him to dunk on LeBron James, suggesting he will avoid unnecessary risk.

Team World roster and injury absences for NBA All-Star Game (February 15, 2026)

Team World will be coached by Darko Rajaković and features several established international players. The roster does not include inactive or traded players, but Giannis Antetokounmpo and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have both been ruled out with injuries.

Possible matchup against LeBron James

Team World will face USA Stars, a younger group that includes Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes. The winner moves on to play USA Stripes, led by veterans such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard.That format could place Doncic on the floor against his Lakers teammate. If Team World loses its opener, it will play in Game 3, where point differential could still decide the final pairing.Also read: USA vs World NBA All-Star game predictions, odds, spread, moneyline, best prop bets, and more (February 15, 2026)

NBA All-Star Game Prize money and what it means for the Lakers

Players on the winning team will receive $125,000, giving the tournament some competitive weight.For Doncic, the game also serves as preparation ahead of the Lakers’ playoff run. He had been on a stretch of 30-point performances before the injury, and the All-Star appearance offers a chance to return without pushing too hard.