As the Los Angeles Lakers inch closer to setting up a conference semis clash against the OKC Thunder, all eyes turn to Luka Doncic’s injury status. The superstar has been out since Apr. 2 after enduring a Grade 2 left hamstring strain against the Thunder during the regular season. Doncic didn’t appear in the first round of the NBA playoffs against the Houston Rockets.
The Lakers managed to go up 3-0 without him. Through the first half of the closeout Game 6, Los Angeles is leading Houston by 18 points. Doncic has looked active on the bench, but he could take longer to return to action. According to Lakers radio host John Ireland, Doncic hasn’t even started running and is not close to making a return.
If the Lakers advance on Friday, they will begin the conference semis against the Thunder on Tuesday. For Luka Doncic, since he reportedly hasn’t started running, increased activity during this period will likely be the first hurdle. The next steps would be to get on-court reps in one-on-one, three-on-three and five-on-five settings.
At the same time, the Lakers will also monitor him to see if he’s facing any discomfort. Aggravating the injury could force him into a long rehab process during the summer, which wouldn’t be ideal for his preparations for next season.
Lakers may be able to hold off the Thunder a bit without Luka Doncic
The Lakers will be the underdogs against the OKC Thunder regardless of Luka Doncic’s presence. However, the NBA has been as unpredictable as ever in the 2026 playoffs, so the Lakers will like their chances if they are fully healthy. However, with Doncic unlikely to return in the early stages of that series, there will be concerns about Los Angeles’ ability to win a game or two in the first three or four games.
Given how the Lakers have played against the Rockets, especially in the first three games, it seems they could have a shot at forcing an upset. Austin Reaves’ return gives them much-needed offensive depth. He’s had two games in the Rockets series to find his rhythm and has gotten better with every stint.
While Houston’s offense wasn’t as threatening, the defense remains as good as any team. The Lakers withstood the ball-pressure and physicality, so they may be able to handle OKC’s defense, too.
However, it will remain a slim chance. The Lakers must put their best foot forward on every possession to stand a chance of stealing a few wins against the Thunder early.
