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Lakers Could Get Luka Doncic Back During Rockets Series: Report
TL;DR
Luka Doncic of the Lakers is sidelined for the start of the series against the Rockets, but he may return before the series ends, according to insider reports.
Key points
- Luka Doncic is sidelined for the start of the Rockets series.
- Insider reports suggest Doncic may return before the series ends.
- Austin Reaves has a four-to-six-week recovery timeline.
Los Angeles LakersHouston RocketsLuka DoncicAustin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic will be watching the team’s series against the Houston Rockets from the sidelines to start off with.
However, Lakers insider Jovan Buha has revealed that he may return before the end of the Rockets series.
“So the Lakers are preparing to not have either one of them in their first-round series against the Houston Rockets. Right now, Austin Reaves had a four-to-six-week timetable,” Buha said on CNN.
“This was as of April 2nd, so we’re a couple weeks into that. So if he returns, it would be the end of the first round, if not potentially into the second round, if the Lakers are able to advance.”
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) hops to the side of the court during a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Doncic’s hamstring injury, which he picked up during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, ruled him out for the rest of the regular season, and, timeline-wise, he would miss the start of the Rockets series.
While getting him back sooner would be ideal for the team and Doncic, Buha warned that the Lakers will be careful with their franchise player, especially since hamstrings are complicated.
“With Luka, they’ve not given an official timetable. They just said he was out for the regular season, then he went overseas to Spain to get some treatment that maybe isn’t given in the US,” Buha explained.
Q&A
When is Luka Doncic expected to return during the Rockets series?
Luka Doncic may return before the end of the first-round series against the Houston Rockets.
What is Austin Reaves' injury timeline for the Lakers?
Austin Reaves has a four-to-six-week recovery timeline, which could affect his availability in the series.
How could Doncic's return impact the Lakers' playoff chances?
Doncic's return could significantly boost the Lakers' chances of advancing in the playoffs if they can make it past the Rockets.
