The Los Angeles Lakers have dealt with some serious injury issues over the last couple weeks, including a few issues for NBA superstar Luka Doncic.
Doncic was ruled out for Friday night’s defeat against the Denver Nuggets, marking the Lakers’ fourth consecutive loss after winning eight straight. The newly-acquired All-Star returned to the court on Sunday, leading Los Angeles to a 107-96 win over the Phoenix Suns with 33 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists.
Doncic (right ankle sprain) was originally listed as “questionable” for Monday night’s matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. But hours before tipoff, the Lakers upgraded him to “probable.”
Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle injury management) is also listed as “probable.” Rui Hachimura (left patellar tendinopathy), LeBron James (left groin strain), Trey Jemison III (illness) and Maxi Kleber (right foot surgery recovery) were all listed as “out.”
Since arriving in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic is averaging 26.6 points, 8.8 rebounds and 7.6 assists per game. The Lakers improved their season record to 41-25 with Sunday’s win over the Suns, strengthening their position as the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference.
“Obviously, not there yet,” Doncic said of his injury after a 45-point outing against the Bucks on Thursday. “Every day, a little bit more. But still not there. Got to get some things off my body. Get them to feel better and then be ready.”
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and guard Austin Reaves (15)
© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Monday night’s game against the Spurs will tipoff at 10:30 p.m. EST from Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers are favored by 8.5 points over the visiting Spurs.
