Lakers face critical stretch after Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves suffer Grade 2 injuries
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The Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff run took a major hit Thursday when Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sustained significant injuries during a lopsided loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Head coach JJ Redick said both players had been cleared to play before tip-off. “He was medically cleared,” Redick recalled asking team staff about Reaves at halftime, according to The Athletic. “The group wanted to go for it in the second half. There was nothing leading into that game that would suggest either of those guys were running hot.”
Extent of the injuries
• Luka Doncic: diagnosed with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, expected to miss an extended period and will seek treatment in Europe.
• Austin Reaves: sidelined four to six weeks with a Grade 2 oblique injury.
With both starters out, Redick’s immediate objective is straightforward: “Extend the season,” he said, hoping to keep the team afloat until their return.
Lineup shuffle begins
The impact was evident Sunday in Dallas, where unfamiliar lineups filled the floor during a loss to the Mavericks. Several units that had never logged minutes together were pressed into service.
LeBron James finished with 30 points, 15 assists and nine rebounds but admitted the news was jarring. “I took my nap and woke up with that news,” James said. “It was like another shot.”
Los Angeles remains tied for the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, yet that position suddenly appears far less secure as the team navigates upcoming games without two key contributors.
Source: Hoops Wire
