The Los Angeles Lakers announced on Mar. 24 that Marcus Smart is listed as doubtful, while Rui Hachimura and Adou Thiero are questionable for the team’s upcoming game against the Indiana Pacers due to injuries. Both Smart and Hachimura missed the Lakers’ recent loss to the Detroit Pistons after sustaining their injuries in a previous win over the Orlando Magic.
Smart is dealing with right ankle soreness, while Hachimura has right calf soreness and Thiero is experiencing left knee soreness. Head coach JJ Redick said that neither injury to Smart or Hachimura is considered serious and both players are day-to-day moving forward.
The absence of Smart and Hachimura was felt during the loss to Detroit. Smart has been described as a tone-setter for his defense, energy, and attitude, often taking on key defensive assignments. Hachimura has served as one of the team’s most consistent scorers off the bench this season, leading in three-point shooting at 43.8% from beyond the arc.
In response to these absences, Redick adjusted his lineup by starting Jake LaRavia for defensive purposes and bringing Jarred Vanderbilt into rotation. While both contributed solid performances, neither could fully replicate what Smart or Hachimura bring in terms of playmaking or shooting ability.
If Smart and Hachimura remain unavailable for Wednesday’s matchup—the final game of this road trip—Redick may continue with similar rotation changes. Thiero’s status also remains uncertain after he briefly appeared in Detroit before being sidelined by knee soreness; veteran Maxi Kleber could see increased playing time if needed.
The Lakers have a chance to finish their road trip with a strong record if they defeat an Indiana team currently tied for the worst record in the NBA but coming off a win that ended their 16-game losing streak.
