LeBron James says Lakers must unlock offense without injured Luka Doncic
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Oklahoma City, OK — May 5, 2026: The Los Angeles Lakers managed only 90 points on 42 percent shooting in a 108-90 Game 1 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and LeBron James pointed directly to the absence of back-court star Luka Doncic as the primary reason for the offensive slowdown.
“When a guy who averages nearly 37 a night isn’t available, that’s the problem in plain sight,” James said after the second-round opener at Paycom Center. He added that facing the league’s top-rated defense requires multiple players who draw double teams, something Doncic routinely provides.
James finished with 27 points on 12-for-17 shooting and six assists, but Austin Reaves—tasked with additional ball-handling duties—scored just eight points on 3-of-16 shooting and committed a team-high four turnovers. Without Doncic stretching the floor, Oklahoma City’s collection of elite perimeter defenders focused on Reaves, limiting his driving lanes and three-point looks.
Head coach JJ Redick echoed James’s assessment, noting that the Lakers generated several open attempts that did not fall. Both emphasized the need to attack the paint more effectively, protect the ball and shoot “with confidence” to prolong the series while Doncic recovers.
Doncic remains sidelined by a Grade 2 left hamstring strain and has not yet returned to full-contact drills. The team has not provided a timetable for his availability.
Source: Lakers Nation
