The Los Angeles Lakers will be without their leading scorer for a second consecutive game, but help appears to be on the way in the frontcourt.
The team announced today that Luka Doncic remains OUT for tomorrow night’s heavyweight clash against the West-leading Oklahoma City Thunder due to a lingering left hamstring strain.
However, the injury report brought some optimism: Starting center Deandre Ayton has been upgraded to PROBABLE after missing Saturday’s win over Golden State with right knee soreness.
Luka’s Hamstring Concern
Doncic, who is currently leading the NBA in scoring at 32.8 points per game, originally tweaked his hamstring during Thursday’s win over the 76ers. While the MRI showed no major structural damage, the Lakers are taking a cautious approach with their superstar, especially with the All-Star break just around the corner.
Without Luka’s offensive engine, the Lakers will once again lean heavily on LeBron James and Austin Reaves to initiate the offense against a stout Thunder defense.
Ayton’s Crucial Return
The potential return of Deandre Ayton couldn’t come at a better time. The Lakers were forced to play small against the Warriors, but facing Oklahoma City’s length requires a true presence in the paint. Ayton is averaging 13.4 points and 8.4 rebounds on nearly 68% shooting this season.
If Ayton suits up, his ability to control the glass will be vital against a Thunder team that excels at forcing turnovers and getting out in transition.
The Matchup
Despite missing Luka, the Lakers (32-19) are riding a three-game winning streak. They catch a break as the Thunder are also dealing with their own injury woes, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently ruled out with an abdominal strain.
It’s a battle of the “Next Man Up.” Can LeBron and a returning Ayton hold down the fort at Crypto.com Arena?
Prediction: Thunder -5.5.
