The Los Angeles Lakers will open their second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder without star guard Luka Doncic, who remains sidelined by a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Head coach JJ Redick told reporters after Sunday’s practice that there was “no update” on Doncic, and the club formally ruled him out for Tuesday’s Game 1.
Oklahoma City issued a similar designation for forward Jalen Williams, who is dealing with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain. Local writers Justin Martinez, Joe Mussatto and Jenni Carlson of The Oklahoman noted that Williams appears further along in his recovery than Doncic, yet argued the Thunder can likely advance without him, while Los Angeles’ chances are far slimmer if Doncic stays out.
Redick stresses team approach
Redick, whose roster closed the regular season on a 16-2 run before eliminating Houston in the first round, reiterated that the Lakers’ success has been collective.
“The reason our team is winning is because of our team, because each guy is starring in his role,” he said Friday after the Game 6 victory over the Rockets. “Each guy had moments that helped us win.”
Ayton and Smart seek redemption
Center Deandre Ayton figures to be pivotal against the defending Western Conference champions. “He’s the player who changes our ceiling the most,” Redick said. Ayton told the Los Angeles Times he intends to “play bigger” and be “relentless on the glass” during the matchup with Oklahoma City.
Guard Marcus Smart, who joined Los Angeles on the same type of discounted, player-option deal as Ayton after a buyout, said both veterans are eager to prove themselves. “We’re both trying to get our names back into the good graces of the basketball gods and just show what we still can do,” Smart told The Athletic.
Kennard labeled X-factor
Melissa Rohlin of the California Post pointed to Luke Kennard as the club’s potential difference-maker in Round 2. The sharpshooter scored only 11 points while shooting 4-for-18 over the final three games against Houston and is entering free agency this summer.
A strong showing against the Thunder could improve Kennard’s market, and teammates believe he must be more aggressive offensively.
LeBron reflects on career-long MJ comparisons
In an ESPN feature, Dave McMenamin chronicled an eight-city conversation with LeBron James throughout the 2025-26 season. Asked how he stacks up to Michael Jordan, James said he has “never” compared himself to the six-time champion, citing contrasting playing styles.
“I have always looked for the pass. MJ looked for the shot,” James said, adding that certain aspects of his game are “a little better” than Jordan’s while emphasizing that “we’re both great basketball players.”
The Lakers and Thunder tip off Game 1 on Tuesday night in Oklahoma City.
Source: Hoops Rumors
