The Los Angeles Lakers announced on Apr. 14 that Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves will both be out indefinitely due to injuries as the team prepares to begin its playoff run against the Houston Rockets. Doncic is recovering from a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, while Reaves has a Grade 2 left oblique injury. Both players are expected to miss at least the start of the first-round series.
The absence of two key players comes at a crucial time for the Lakers, who will need to rely on their remaining roster members in hopes of advancing in the postseason. The team has not provided an exact timeline for either player’s return, but head coach JJ Redick addressed their status during practice on Tuesday.
“They’re out indefinitely,” Redick said. “I’m not going to have an update for you this week. They’re out indefinitely.”
Soft tissue injuries like those suffered by Doncic and Reaves can be unpredictable and carry a high risk of re-injury if athletes return too soon. While there is some hope that one or both could recover in time to participate later in the series, caution remains a priority for both players and coaching staff.
In their absence, LeBron James is expected to take on more responsibility as primary creator, with Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard also contributing offensively. Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton may see increased roles as well, while defensive focus becomes even more important without two leading scorers available.
In positive news for the Lakers, center Jaxson Hayes returned to practice after missing four games with a left foot injury and is ready for Game 1 against Houston.
Looking ahead, whether Doncic or Reaves can return depends on how far the Lakers advance in their matchup with the Rockets.