Lakers' JJ Redick Announces Luka Doncic Update Before Rockets Game

Doncic remains sidelined with a left hamstring strain as the Lakers face the Rockets in the playoffs.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:18am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fractured, multi-angle view of a basketball game, with sharp planes of purple, gold, red, and blue colors representing the Lakers and Rockets in competition.The Lakers face an uphill battle in the playoffs without their star Luka Doncic, forcing LeBron James to take on an even greater offensive role.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Lakers will be without star guard Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves for the start of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets. Lakers assistant coach JJ Redick said he spoke with Doncic and the young star was in good spirits, though his return remains uncertain.

Why it matters

Doncic has been the driving force behind the Lakers' success this season, leading the NBA in scoring. His absence will put more pressure on LeBron James to carry the offense against a tough Rockets team.

The details

Doncic is averaging 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game this season. Along with Reaves, he forms the backbone of the Lakers' offense. Without their two key contributors, the Lakers will have to rely heavily on the veteran leadership of LeBron James to control the pace and create efficient looks against a disciplined Houston squad.

  • The Lakers' first-round playoff series against the Rockets begins on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • Doncic returned to Los Angeles on Tuesday, April 16, 2026 after recovering from his left hamstring strain.

The players

Luka Doncic

The Lakers' star guard who is sidelined with a left hamstring strain. He is averaging a league-leading 33.5 points per game this season.

LeBron James

The veteran Lakers forward who will have to take on a larger offensive role with Doncic and Reaves out.

JJ Redick

The Lakers' assistant coach who spoke with Doncic and said the young star was in good spirits.

Austin Reaves

The Lakers' guard who is also sidelined with an oblique injury.

Kevin Durant

The star forward for the Houston Rockets, the Lakers' first-round playoff opponent.

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What they’re saying

“Doncic was in good spirits.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Assistant Coach

What’s next

The Lakers and Rockets will tip off Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Saturday, April 19, 2026 at 8:30 pm ET on ABC.

The takeaway

The Lakers face an uphill battle to start the playoffs without their two key offensive contributors in Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. LeBron James will have to shoulder an even larger load to lead the Lakers past the tough Rockets team, but the team remains optimistic about Doncic's eventual return.