Injury Roundup: Doncic Returning to Lakers, Heat Guards Out, Allen Questionable, Hunter Cleared, Butler Progressing
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Lakers guard Luka Doncic is expected to fly back to the United States and rejoin Los Angeles on Friday, according to Melissa Rohlin of the California Post. The All-Star has been in Spain since April 2, receiving treatment and multiple injections for a Grade 2 strain in his left hamstring.
A typical recovery for that type of injury is roughly one month, and the Lakers have not amended their previous decision to sideline Doncic for the remainder of the regular season. No timetable has been offered for potential playoff availability.
Heat rule out Smith and Jovic
The Miami Heat will face the Hornets in Tuesday’s play-in game without guards Dru Smith (right big toe sprain/right foot soreness) and Nikola Jovic (left ankle sprain), reports Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. Forward Pelle Larsson, listed as questionable with a right lower leg contusion, said he expects to suit up.
Allen day-to-day for Suns
Grayson Allen is questionable for the Suns’ play-in matchup with Portland on Tuesday. Head coach Jordan Ott called the wing “day-to-day” after Allen missed Sunday’s regular-season finale with left hamstring soreness, Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic writes.
Hunter fully recovered
DeAndre Hunter told reporters he has fully recovered from surgery to repair a detached retina in his left eye, notes James Ham of The Kings Beat. The Kings forward, 28, has been cleared for all basketball activities as Sacramento heads into the offseason.
Butler off crutches
Jimmy Butler remains early in his rehabilitation from ACL surgery, but the Warriors swingman is no longer using crutches, ESPN’s Anthony Slater reports. Butler’s recovery is expected to extend well into the 2026-27 campaign.
Source: Hoops Rumors
