Will Luka Doncic Return? Lakers vs Thunder Injury Report Ahead of Crucial Game 3

Doncic said he is taking things day by day and is doing exactly what the medical staff tells him to do. He admitted that this specific injury feels more stubborn than the hamstring issues he has dealt with in the past. 

Without their star, the Lakers have struggled to keep up with the Oklahoma City team. They lost the first 2 games of the series by 18 points each. The Thunder are playing with a lot of confidence and have won 6 straight playoff games. 

After the Game 2 loss, Coach JJ Redick was vocal about the officiating. He mentioned that LeBron James does not get the same foul calls as other stars, despite playing through a lot of physical contact. James himself has been blunt lately, stating that the team is in a hole and needs to protect their home court. 

Most insiders believe Doncic is still at least a week or two away from being ready to play. This means he could potentially miss the entire series against the Thunder. 

The Lakers may not have their superstar back yet, but they might have found a player to keep them in the fight.

Austin Reaves Gives Lakers Hope Despite Luka Doncic’s Absence

Austin Reaves missed about a month with an oblique strain and struggled to find his rhythm when he first returned. In the 1st game against the Thunder, he just managed to score 8 points. 

However, in Game 2, he scored a playoff career-high 31 points and 6 assists. Redick praised his aggression by stating this was exactly what the team needed to see.

Without the scoring and spacing that Doncic provides, the Lakers have to work much harder for every basket. The Lakers are also monitoring other injuries heading into Game 3. Jarred Vanderbilt is questionable after hurting his finger, and his defensive presence is badly needed. 

On the other side, the Thunder are missing Jalen Williams and Thomas Sorber, but their depth has allowed them to keep winning. If the Lakers want to avoid a 0-3 deficit, they will need another brilliant performance from Reaves and the rest of the team.

Do you think the Lakers can win Game 3 without Luka on the floor?