Luka Doncic may not return before Game 3 of the Lakers vs Rockets series

Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch regarding Luka Doncic’s availability for the upcoming series between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets. With Game 1 slated for Saturday, Doncic arrived in Los Angeles on Tuesday and is reportedly continuing his recovery under the supervision of the Lakers’ medical staff.

Amid the cloud of uncertainty, injury analyst Dr. Jesse Morse suggested via X (formerly Twitter) that Doncic may still be over a week away from live action. “He’s flying back to LA to finish his rehab and attempt to return as safely as possible. He realistically needs at least another 10 days,” Morse posted, casting doubt on an early-series return.

If that timeline hold true, the earliest Doncic would likely take the floor is Game 3, scheduled for Friday, May 23. Per the official postseason fixture, the Lakers will have to navigate the opening matchups without their superstar playmaker if the 10-day window remains firm.

The situation has left the Lakers’ faithful on edge. While Doncic has been aggressive in his rehabilitation efforts to return for this specific series, he currently remains sidelined alongside Austin Reaves, leaving the Lakers shorthanded as they prepare for the Rockets‘ high-octane offense.

Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers brings the ball up.

JJ Redick addresses Doncic’s status

With the Rockets series looming, head coach JJ Redick was pressed for updates on the health of both his Slovenian star and Austin Reaves. Redick’s guarded response did little to ease concerns, leaving the immediate future of the Lakers’ postseason rotation up in the air.

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However, LeBron James appeared unfazed by the prospect of an undermanned start. Despite Doncic missing the tail end of the regular season, James remains focused on the task at hand, projecting confidence in the roster’s ability to hold the line.

For now, the Lakers’ focus remains squarely on stealing Game 1 this Saturday. Securing an opening victory would be the first crucial step toward their ultimate goal: raising another championship banner in June.