Can Doncic Return for Game 3 vs. the Rockets? Latest Updates
There may be a glimmer of hope: muscle treatment in Madrid could have reignited the Lakers’ chances of getting Doncic back for the Playoffs
The fate of the Los Angeles Lakers in these NBA Playoffs hinges on the muscle fibers of Luka Doncic. As the team prepares for Game 2 against the Rockets, the Slovenian’s injury status continues to keep the entire league on edge.
While the franchise has yet to outline an official return timeline, a small window of hope has emerged: Luka could attempt a comeback in Game 3 or Game 4, challenging medical skepticism.
Insider Jovan Buha added fuel to the speculation, revealing that Doncic traveled to Spain to undergo advanced treatments – some not yet approved in the United States – in an effort to accelerate his recovery.
He just got back to L.A. A Grade 2 hamstring strain usually requires 3 to 6 weeks. There’s a chance we see him mid-series, but you don’t mess with muscle injuries – the risk of re-injury is extremely high
Jovan Buha
Doncic uncertain, Reaves likely out
While there’s still a flicker of hope for Luka, the curtain appears to be closing on Austin Reaves. His oblique injury comes with a much stricter recovery timeline (4-6 weeks): barring a miracle or a deep playoff run into the Conference Semifinals, his postseason may already be over.
In this “trench warfare” scenario, the Lakers still found a breath of fresh air thanks to Kevin Durant’s absence for Houston in Game 1 – a game decided by LeBron James’ double-double and 27 points from Luke Kennard. Head coach JJ Redick responded effectively, reshaping the defense to neutralize Alperen Sengun and disrupt the Rockets’ offensive system.
But the reality remains: without Luka’s 33.5 points and 8.3 assists per game, a championship run becomes an uphill battle. The Lakers await their superstar, fully aware that his return could instantly shift the momentum of the series – while also knowing they must protect his long-term health.