“Time To Process Everything” – Luka Doncic Admits He Is “Mentally Exhausted” After Lakers’ First Round Exit in NBA Playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers’ season came to a close Wednesday night, as they suffered a 103–96 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the first-round series. It was deja vu for Lakers fans, with the team crashing out in the opening round against Minnesota for the second year in a row.

But this year’s exit felt heavier, not just because of the result, but because of how much had changed.

Back in February, the Lakers pulled off one of the most shocking trades in NBA history, acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks and sending Anthony Davis in a stunning mid-season deal that sent shockwaves across the league. The move was meant to shift the balance of power in the West. Instead, it ended in silence.

Also Read: Lakers’ Trade Rejection Mark Williams Trolls LeBron & Co. After First-Round Exit

Following the loss, Doncic faced reporters with a mixture of disappointment, exhaustion, and reflection. When asked about the season, he didn’t hold back.

“I’m mentally exhausted. It’s time to process everything.”

Luka Doncic played with a sore back in the second half. The 25-year-old landed on his knee during a layup attempt and immediately grabbed his lower back. He was substituted out of the game but later returned.

“My back is not good at all … but I tried to go.”

And when it came to his own performance:

“I didn’t play the way I should. As a team, we didn’t play the way we could. Minnesota was the better team.”

Praise for Coach JJ Redick

Despite the disappointment, Doncic had high praise for head coach JJ Redick, who completed his first season in charge.

“I think he’s a hell of a coach. Not many coaches do the stuff he did in his first year. I’m really glad he coached me. Feels sometimes like I’m back in Europe a little bit. We have a great bond … it’s been nothing but amazing.”

What’s Next?

With the Lakers now entering offseason mode, questions loom over roster construction, health, and coaching continuity. For now, though, the focus isn’t on headlines or hypotheticals.

For Luka, it’s time, time to breathe, time to heal, and most of all.

Time to process everything.

Shweta B

Shweta is the founder of CrossSports Central — a creative nerd with a serious love for sports. When she's not breaking down game-winning plays, you’ll find her gaming, or hanging out with her dogs.

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