Lakers rule Luka Doncic out; Luke Kennard listed as questionable for Saturday vs. Warriors
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The Los Angeles Lakers have ruled out Luka Doncic for Saturday’s meeting with the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena, citing a left hamstring strain suffered Thursday in Philadelphia. The injury occurred late in the second quarter of the 104-99 victory over the 76ers, and the 26-year-old guard did not return.
Head coach JJ Redick told reporters after that game that Doncic experienced hamstring soreness and would undergo imaging. “He didn’t feel like it was good enough to go back in and neither did medical, so we held him out,” Redick said.
With four games remaining before the All-Star break, the Lakers opted for caution. The upcoming eight-day layoff could provide Doncic additional recovery time if needed.
Shooting guard Luke Kennard, acquired at Thursday’s trade deadline, is listed as questionable while his physical is finalized. If cleared, the veteran marksman would make his Lakers debut.
The team’s latest injury report also keeps rookie forward Adou Thiero sidelined with a right MCL sprain. Center Jaxson Hayes is available again after serving a one-game suspension.
Doncic’s absence shifts more offensive responsibility to LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Reaves, back from a recent injury of his own, recorded 24 points and nine assists against Philadelphia and emphasized Doncic’s importance. “We need him. He’s our best player and the engine of a lot of stuff that we do,” Reaves said.
The Lakers enter a four-game Western Conference stretch before the break, beginning with Golden State on Saturday.
Source: Lakers Nation
