Lakers' Doncic, Reaves remain out indefinitely ahead of playoffs

Coach JJ Redick says star guards will miss start of first-round series against Rockets

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:39pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the abstract forms of basketball players in motion, with sharp geometric planes of color and no identifiable features, representing the uncertainty and fragmentation of the Lakers' playoff situation without their key players.The Lakers' playoff hopes hinge on the timely return of their injured star guards, as their absences leave a significant void in the team's backcourt.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Lakers will be without star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves for the start of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets. Coach JJ Redick said both players remain sidelined with injuries and there is no timetable for their return.

Why it matters

Doncic and Reaves are key contributors for the Lakers, who are looking to make a deep playoff run. Their absences could significantly impact the team's chances in the postseason.

The details

Doncic is dealing with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, while Reaves has a Grade 2 left oblique strain. Both players suffered their injuries during the Lakers' April 2 road loss to the Thunder. Reaves was seen shooting on the court during Tuesday's practice, but he remains out indefinitely.

  • Doncic and Reaves have been out for nearly two weeks.
  • Game 1 of the Lakers-Rockets series is scheduled for Saturday, April 19.

The players

Luka Doncic

A star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who is currently sidelined with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain.

Austin Reaves

A guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who is currently sidelined with a Grade 2 left oblique strain.

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

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What they’re saying

“'They're out indefinitely. I'm not going to have an update for you this week. They're out indefinitely.'”

— JJ Redick, Head Coach, Los Angeles Lakers

What’s next

Doncic is expected to return to the United States on Friday, but it's unclear if he will be ready to play in Game 1 against the Rockets. The Lakers will continue to monitor the progress of both Doncic and Reaves as they work to recover from their respective injuries.

The takeaway

The Lakers' playoff hopes could hinge on the timely return of Doncic and Reaves, as their absences leave a significant void in the team's backcourt. The organization will need to carefully manage their recoveries to ensure they are fully healthy for the postseason push.