The return of Los Angeles Lakers star guard Luka Doncic for the remainder of their first-round series seems impossible.
The Lakers entered the 2026 NBA Playoffs on a high note with a convincing victory against the Rockets in Game 1 on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Donic has not played since April 2 due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain. He was injured during the Lakers’ crushing loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
After Doncic underwent an MRI, the Lakers officially ruled Doncic out for the remainder of the regular season.
Once again, hopes rose when Doncic returned to the team on Friday before the first game after receiving an injection in his left hamstring.
The injury normally takes 4-6 weeks to recover, but at the time of writing, an update on Doncic’s availability is expected.
However, Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters last week, “They’re out indefinitely,” and Doncic and Austin Reaves have been ruled out.
Redick added: “I won’t have an update for you this week. They’re available indefinitely.”
As of now, Austin Reaves has returned to on-field activities and could be back at least in the series, according to ESPN.
The Lakers lead 2-0 after a 101-94 victory in Game 2 on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
How soon will Luka Doncic return to the NBA playoffs?
As things stand as of Tuesday, April 21, it appears the most likely scenario would be that Doncic doesn’t make his return to the playoffs until at least the second round, assuming the Lakers advance.
