The path to seeing Luka Dončić back on the floor with the Lakers is long and unknown.
Ever since he went down with a hamstring strain against the Thunder back in early April, he’s done everything possible to return, including traveling to Spain to get treatment on his injury.
Luka remains out indefinitely and isn’t expected to return during the first round of the playoffs. Still, head coach JJ Redick did provide a morsel of good news on his superstar player before Game 2 against the Rockets.
“No update
on the timeline for either of those guys,” Redick said. “Austin has started a return to play [process], but we don’t have any timeline update for him. Then Luka, I think, is going to start some court work here soon, but again, no update on a timeline for him.”
Things might be moving slowly for both Dončić and Austin Reaves, but slow motion is better than no motion.
Both players have been seen at the Lakers’ practice facility, and if the Lakers keep winning, they’ll have a chance to make a postseason appearance for the purple and gold this season.
Redick has mentioned that the Lakers need to extend the season long enough for Dončić to return, and so far, both parties are doing their part.
The Lakers are up 2-0 in their series against the Rockets and Dončić continues to make strides towards returning.
The value of Luka to this Lakers team cannot be overstated. He is the NBA’s scoring champion and was presented with his trophy along with the Western Conference Player of the Month Award for March during Game 2 against the Rockets.
Despite the eagerness to see Luka playing in the playoffs with the Lakers, this patient approach is necessary. Luka already dealt with a hamstring strain earlier this season, and this one is even more serious. He is the franchise player, and until he is 100%, he can’t play in competitive basketball games.
Still, the hope is that he can come back if the Lakers can advance past this opening round, and so far, that’s looking possible.
Hopefully, the next update we get is even more positive, and a timeline will emerge then.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
