The return of Los Angeles Lakers star point guard Luka Doncic for the remainder of their first-round series seems impossible.
The Lakers entered the 2026 NBA Playoffs on a strong note with a convincing victory over the Rockets in Game 1 this past Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Donic hasn’t played since April 2 with a Grade 2 strain in his left hamstring, which he suffered in 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.
Hopes were once again raised when Doncic returned to the team on Friday before Game 1 after receiving an injection in his left hamstring.
The injury typically requires a 4-6 week recovery, but as of this writing, an update on Doncic’s availability is expected.
However, Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters last week, “They’re out indefinitely,” and both Doncic and Austin Reaves were ruled out.
Redick added: “I won’t be giving you any updates this week. They are available indefinitely.”
As of now, Austin Reaves has returned to on-court activity and could return to at least the series, according to ESPN.
The Lakers hold a 2-0 lead 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 on Tuesday, April 21, it seems like the most likely scenario would be that Doncic doesn’t return to playoff action until at least the second round, assuming the Lakers advance.
