Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Image via: Imagn Images
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are suddenly the center of concern in Los Angeles, and the timing could not be worse. As the playoffs arrive, the Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a tough first-round series without their two most productive scorers.
What looked like a manageable injury situation has now taken a more uncertain turn, leaving the team searching for answers.There was some hope, at least early on, that one of them might return sooner than expected. That optimism faded quickly after practice this week. Head coach JJ Redick did not leave much room for interpretation, and his tone reflected the reality the team now faces.
JJ Redick gives the latest Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves injury update
The message from JJ Redick was brief but heavy. “They’re out indefinitely,” he said.
“I’m not going to have an update for you this week. They’re out indefinitely.”It is a tough blow for a Lakers squad heading into a playoff matchup with the Houston Rockets. Luka Doncic is dealing with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, while Austin Reaves continues to recover from a Grade 2 oblique injury. Both injuries were picked up during an April 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and neither player has returned since.
Doncic has been in Spain receiving treatment and is expected back in Los Angeles soon, though his timeline remains unclear.
Reaves, meanwhile, has stayed with the team, going through light work like free throws after practice. The lack of a firm return date suggests caution, especially this time of year.
How serious are Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves’ injuries?
The injuries are not minor. A Grade 2 hamstring strain typically involves a partial tear, often limiting movement and requiring careful rehab. It is the kind of injury that punishes any attempt to rush back. Similarly, a Grade 2 oblique strain can affect basic movement, even making simple actions like breathing or twisting uncomfortable.In most cases, recovery sits in the four to six week range. That timeline alone puts both players at risk of missing the entire first round. Together, Doncic and Reaves averaged 56.8 points per game this season, along with significant playmaking and rebounding. Their absence leaves a clear gap, not just in scoring but in rhythm and control.
Who replaces Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as playoff battles loom?
The responsibility now shifts. LeBron James will carry a heavier load, though Redick has made it clear the plan is not to rely on him alone.
“I do think we have other options [other than] just him having the ball and going against a set defense every single possession,” Redick said.Players like Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard are expected to take on larger roles as ball handlers and decision-makers. There is also a focus on controlling the basics. “Taking care of the basketball and boxing out, that’s the series,” Redick said.Certainly, the Lakers have options for situations like this, but again, Doncic and Reaves are two of the top scorers on the teams, and without them, it would not be easy for the franchise to give the opponents a tough battle.
