Luka Doncic makes progress with on-court movements but Lakers still have to wait

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic still has work to do to get back on the court, as a report that also provided an update on Austin Reaves and Kevin Durant ruled the Slovenian out for Game 5. Even so, it looks like Doncic is making important progress.

According to ESPN‘s Dave McMenamin, head coach JJ Redick disclosed that Doncic has started engaging in some on-court movements. “Most of his activity [previously] had been stationary,” Redick noted, as cited by McMenamin.

In his report, Dr. Jesse Morse shared his insights on Doncic’s rehabilitation timeline via social media, estimating that Doncic is approximately 10-14 days away from returning to action. This timeline, mentioned by McMenamin, suggests that Doncic could potentially assist the Lakers in a hypothetical Western Conference semifinal, as they are just one win away from clinching their spot.

Following Game 4, in which LeBron James criticized the officiating over controversial ejections, there are still adjustments needed for the Lakers to secure that position.

Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Doncic in a different situation than Reaves

While Doncic’s return to the court remains uncertain, Austin Reaves appears ready to play on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets in Game 5.

See also

Lakers’ JJ Redick voices frustration over lack of explanation for player ejections against Rockets

Though he was rumored to be ready for Game 3, medical staff advised waiting until Game 4, which took place on Sunday. Redick mentioned Reaves might be available for that game on a game-time decision basis. However, Reaves was sidelined, building anticipation for Wednesday’s matchup.

With the Lakers in a strong position to secure their place in the Western Conference semifinals, and the potential return of Reaves and Doncic on the horizon, there is optimism about what the Lakers can achieve in the playoffs.