Why the NBA Suspended Dennis Schroder for 3 Games After Luka Incident

The NBA has suspended Kings guard Dennis Schroederfor three games, stemming from a post-game dust-up between him and Luka Doncic. This was after the Kings had lost to the Los Angeles Lakers 125-101 on December 28, at crypto.com arena.

“I’m gonna beat the sh*t out of you”

Dennis Schroder to Luka 😳 pic.twitter.com/kBeOLQ1McG

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 29, 2025

On-Court Exchanges Lead to Post-Game Tension

There were moments throughout the game of jarring between Doncic and Schroder. Tempers flared during the timeout when Doncic mocked Schroder about a past contract extension he had declined; a prior decision that has been scrutinized by fans and sports analysts. Schroder was long ago offered an $82 million for four years by L.A. and declined it.

Anyhow, players exited the game, apparently in good spirits and the concern for further escalation subsided-at least for a short time.

Confrontation Erupts in the Tunnel

Deep after the final buzzer, Schroder came out of the Kings' locker room and crossed paths with Doncic around the tunnel opposite the home bench. The incident, according to league investigations, soon intensified.

Schroder confronted Doncic, saying that he could not call him derogatory names during the game and then act like nothing happened after that. The NBA stated that Schroder attempted to hit Doncic during the altercation, which prompted an immediate intervention from players, security, and arena personnel.

Lakers center Deandre Ayton tried to pull away Schroder. Shocked Doncic tried to leave, while security stepped in to separate the two sides.

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Security Steps In and Parties Leave Separately

Schroder was escorted toward the Kings' team bus, while Kings Coach Doug Christie and Schroder's teammates attempted to piece together their understanding of the situation. Doncic then left quietly out of the building. His father, Saša, accompanied him, and with no further issue, they left to their car.

The review was concluded by the league, which announced the suspension on Saturday. It is rare for the NBA to restrict after-game Tunnel conduct unless an escalation is present and this particular one was considered significant.

The Rematch Without Schroder

The Kings and Lakers are to meet again Monday night in Sacramento, minus Schroder, who is suspended. Luka Doncic was not disciplined by the league since he did not retaliate and tried to walk away from the antics.

The episode has opened up debate again regarding players' behaviors, smack talk parameters, and the league's whole approach to off-court activity. Losing Schroder for three games has affected rotation plans for the Kings as they try to maintain their class in the Western Conference.