Ex-Lakers star Patrick Beverley Exposes NBA's ‘Fake Injury' Trend - Was Luka Doncic's Back Pain a Fraud?

Time of India

03-05-2025

Luka Doncic (Image via Getty Images)
Former
Los Angeles Lakers
guard
Patrick Beverley
has stirred controversy by accusing
Lakers star
Luka Doncic
of faking a back injury during the
NBA playoffs
. Beverley made the claim on his podcast, suggesting that players often use injuries as an excuse when losing important games.
The incident occurred during Game 5 of the first-round series between the Lakers and the
Los Angeles Clippers
. Doncic briefly left the court after appearing to injure his back but returned to finish the game. Beverley, known for his outspoken nature, questioned the legitimacy of the injury.
Patrick Beverley claims NBA players use injuries as an excuse
On The Pat Bev Podcast, Patrick Beverley explained his theory about players exaggerating injuries in elimination games. "I'm gonna tell y'all a little trick the NBA guys do," he said. "Anytime a motherf—er is losing, they like to play the hurt game. You're seeing it with the Lakers." (H/t: Sporting News)
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He continued, "Nah, it's not your back. Easy way to go out, that's how you always know. All elimination games, someone's gotta go be hurt." Patrick Beverley, who has played for multiple NBA teams, including the
Los Angeles Lakers
, implied that Doncic's injury was a strategic move rather than a legitimate issue.
Luka Doncic appeared in pain before returning to the game
Despite Patrick Beverley's accusations, footage from the game showed
Luka Doncic
visibly struggling after a hard fall. He was seen clutching his back before briefly exiting the court. The Mavericks star later returned and played through the discomfort, helping his team secure the win.
The timing of Beverley's comments coincides with reports that LeBron James played through a Grade 2 MCL strain in the same game. James' injury would have likely sidelined him for a potential Game 6, but the Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated in five games by the Denver Nuggets.
Beverley's history with the Los Angeles Lakers and outspoken nature
Beverley, who was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers last season, has never shied away from bold statements. His time in the league has given him a reputation for being both a tenacious defender and a polarizing figure. His latest remarks add fuel to ongoing debates about player injuries and their legitimacy in high-stakes games.
While some fans and analysts may agree with Beverley's skepticism, others argue that Doncic's pain appeared genuine. The discussion highlights the fine line between gamesmanship and genuine injury concerns in professional sports.
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As the NBA offseason begins, Beverley's comments will likely spark further debate among players, analysts, and fans about how injuries are perceived in critical moments.