In a surprising turn of events, Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic will not be on the court for Thursday night's game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The decision comes as part of injury management for the versatile player, who is dealing with a sprained right ankle.
This announcement adds to the Lakers' injury woes as starting guard Austin Reaves will also sit out due to a right ankle sprain. Doncic had a notable performance in the team's recent game against the Denver Nuggets, where he played 32 minutes and recorded 31 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, contributing significantly to the Lakers' 120-108 victory on March 19.
Austin Reaves had a commendable outing as well, scoring 22 points, alongside five rebounds and eight assists in 36 minutes against the Nuggets. However, he will also be missed on the court for the matchup against the Bucks.
Adding further challenges for the Lakers, Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle) and Jarred Vanderbilt (right groin strain) are listed as doubtful to play, while LeBron James (left groin strain) and Rui Hachimura (left patellar tendinopathy) remain sidelined. This leaves the Lakers, who currently hold a 43-25 record, in a tough spot as they conclude a demanding stretch of six games in eight days.
After a much-needed day off on Friday, the Lakers will face the Chicago Bulls on March 22. Doncic, who has quickly made a name for himself since a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks on February 2, 2025, will be aiming to fully recover before the pivotal matchup.
Doncic's move to Los Angeles has been closely watched, especially considering the exchange involved—sending fellow All-NBA star Anthony Davis to the Mavericks. Since joining the Lakers, Doncic has averaged an impressive 26.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in 16 games, playing an average of 34.4 minutes. His ability to impact games has been vital, and the team will certainly feel his absence.
Reaves too has solidified his role within the Lakers by starting all 61 games he has played this season, averaging 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.2 steals, with an average of 34.6 minutes on the floor. Both players' contributions have been essential to the Lakers’ success this season.
As the Lakers gear up for the remainder of the season, the health and recovery of key players like Doncic and Reaves will be crucial as they aim for a strong playoff push. Their challenges with injuries come as the NBA season enters its critical later stages, where every game becomes a matter of utmost importance.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates as the Lakers navigate through these setbacks. The hope is for their star players to return in time to help clinch important wins in pursuit of a playoff position.
