Lakers rule Luka Doncic out; Deandre Ayton questionable for Thursday in Dallas
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The Los Angeles Lakers announced Wednesday that guard Luka Doncic will miss Thursday’s road game against the Dallas Mavericks because of a left hamstring strain, while center Deandre Ayton is listed as questionable with right knee soreness.
LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Marcus Smart, all of whom sat out Tuesday’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs on the second night of a back-to-back, were not included on the latest injury report and are expected to play.
Thursday’s matchup at American Airlines Center is the Lakers’ final contest before the All-Star break. Doncic, sidelined for the past three games, would receive eight additional days of rest before Los Angeles resumes its schedule in the season’s second half.
The 26-year-old was selected to the All-Star Game but will only participate if he is fully healthy. Team officials have indicated that regular-season health takes priority over Sunday’s exhibition at Intuit Dome.
Los Angeles enters Dallas on a two-game skid. Since being traded by the Mavericks last season, Doncic has averaged 33 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists in four meetings against his former club.
Bufkin to see increased role
Guard Kobe Bufkin, recently signed to a two-year contract after a standout stint with the South Bay Lakers, is expected to log additional minutes whenever key rotation players are sidelined. Head coach JJ Redick said the organization preferred promoting Bufkin over pursuing the buyout market, citing the player’s performance and availability.
Source: Lakers Nation
