The Los Angeles Lakers are holding their breath after Luka Doncic left the game against the Thunder with a hamstring injury, creating immediate concern just days before the postseason.
Head coach JJ Redick addressed reporters shortly after the loss, offering only a limited initial update. With the playoffs approaching, the Lakers are expected to proceed cautiously, prioritizing long-term health over short-term seeding in the Western Conference. Now, LeBron James and Austin Reaves will have to lead the way.
The uncertainty surrounding Doncic’s condition comes at a delicate moment for Los Angeles. The team has already clinched a playoff spot, but, no one knows for sure if Doncic will be ready for the postseason.
What is Luka Doncic injury with Lakers?
JJ Redick confirmed that Luka Doncic has a left hamstring injury. The Lakers are still evaluating the situation and avoided making any early projections about Doncic’s availability.
The Lakers plan to rely on further medical imaging before determining next steps, leaving his timeline completely open for now. “We’ll do an MRI on Friday. Left hamstring. We’ll know more on Friday.”
Redick was also questioned about the decision to put Doncic back on the floor after he appeared to be grabbing his leg before halftime, especially with the Lakers trailing by more than 30 points in the third quarter.
The coach defended the decision, explaining that the medical staff cleared him to return. “We checked him out. He got work done. He was cleared. I mean, we’re not going to put a player at risk. Those things happen.”
