Luka Doncic injury update reveals if he'll return for Lakers-Rockets series

Luka Doncic injury update reveals if he'll return for Lakers-Rockets series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar guard Luka Doncic received a critical injury update ahead of Game 5 against the Houston Rockets.

ESPN's Shams Charania said that the chances of Doncic returning to the court in the Lakers first round series against the Rockets are zero.

"Luka Doncic will not be returning in this series," Charania said. "He continues to ramp up, he's starting to do more on the court, JJ Redick said yesterday. We'll see the second round if the Lakers are able to advance. That's really where his timeline could open up, and as the series progresses in the second round, we could get updates."

Luka Doncic's return timeline is still a concern

Doncic has missed the last three weeks plus of action due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. An injury like Doncic's is a bit tricky, as some doctors suggested that a return could be around 10 to 14 days away, which is around the May 6-10 range.

If the Lakers were to advance and possibly face the Oklahoma City Thunder in round two, they could be without Doncic for the first two or three games.

Doncic has been sidelined since April 2, the same as fellow star guard Austin Reaves. Reaves hasn't played in over three weeks as well, but he is closer to a return to the court compared to Doncic.