TITLE: Lakers Update Injury List: Ayton Cleared, Reaves Questionable; Doncic, Hachimura to Sit vs. Suns
SLUG: lakers-injury-update-ayton-cleared-reaves-questionable-doncic-hachimura-out-suns
CONTENT:
The Los Angeles Lakers issued their injury report for Tuesday’s matchup with the Phoenix Suns, confirming that Deandre Ayton will return to action while Luka Doncic, Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent remain sidelined.
Ayton, who missed the last two games with left elbow soreness, practiced in full on Monday and was removed from the report. Head coach JJ Redick called the 7-footer’s availability “a needed boost” for a roster battling multiple injuries.
Out for Tuesday
Doncic (lower left leg contusion), Hachimura (right groin soreness) and Vincent (low back soreness) were all ruled out. Redick labeled all three “day-to-day” but noted that Doncic and Hachimura will miss at least Tuesday’s contest.
Doncic exited at halftime of Saturday’s loss to the LA Clippers after trying to play through his leg issue, finishing with 12 points on 4-of-13 shooting and four turnovers. Hachimura’s groin problem surfaced over the weekend; his absence removes the Lakers’ most accurate three-point shooter at a time when the team is struggling from deep. Vincent has not yet returned to practice and is considered unlikely for the December 25 road game against the Houston Rockets.
Questionable
Austin Reaves (left calf strain) is listed as questionable. The guard has missed three straight games, and the Lakers plan to ensure he is completely healthy before clearing him, mindful of recent calf injuries around the league that have led to more serious setbacks.
Next Man Up
With the status of several key players uncertain, LeBron James said the roster must be prepared to step in and meet the challenge. “Nobody is going to feel sorry for us,” the veteran star noted after practice.
Tip-off between the Lakers and Suns is scheduled for Tuesday night in Phoenix.
Source: Lakers Nation
