The Los Angeles Lakers received alarming news. Amid a wave of injuries that has left them with a skeleton crew, the team suffered another devastating blow: star guard Luka Doncic is sidelined and suffering excruciating pain.
It’s a bittersweet moment for the Lakers. On one hand, they’ve won two of their last three games after a three-game losing streak. A win tonight would lift them from fifth to fourth place in the West.
But on the other hand, their roster is severely depleted. Rising star Austin Reaves and role players Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Adou Thiero have all been sidelined with injuries in recent games.
Reaves is nursing a left calf injury, Hachimura a right calf injury, Vincent is nursing a lower back strain, and rookie Thiero has a right MCL strain. Doncic could be added to these absences.
What’s wrong with Luka Doncic?
The official Lakers injury report before Sunday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies doesn’t mention Doncic. However, a report from Lakers Daily revealed the difficult truth.
According to the report, Doncic is dealing with a left elbow injury. In addition to the unspecified elbow injury, he’s also experiencing leg pain.
Due to both conditions, the Slovenian is undergoing full-time treatment, but he still refuses to stop playing. The team’s current situation doesn’t allow him to take a break.
The game against Memphis is vital for Los Angeles
After Friday night’s 128-121 victory over the Grizzlies, the Lakers have a 21-11 record, tied with the Houston Rockets.
A win in the rematch against Memphis would improve Los Angeles’ record to 22-11 and put them in sole possession of fourth place in the Western Conference, just half a game behind the Denver Nuggets (23-11).
However, much will depend on Luka Doncic’s health. If the Slovenian star is able to return to the court at Crypto.com Arena, the team’s chances will increase significantly.
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