The Los Angeles Lakers are severely short-handed as they prepare to host the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are the latest additions to the Lakers’ injury report, both sidelined with right ankle sprains.
The injuries leave the Lakers without their top four scorers, including LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, who are also unavailable. Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle) and Jarred Vanderbilt (groin strain) are out as well.
Lakers’ Struggling Lineup
- LeBron James remains absent for his seventh consecutive game due to a groin injury.
- Rui Hachimura hasn’t played since February 27 due to a knee injury.
- Luka Doncic has been dealing with persistent ankle issues but pushed through until recently.
- Austin Reaves had been active since March 4 before aggravating his ankle.
Despite their injuries, the Lakers are in the middle of a grueling schedule, playing six games in eight days. Coach JJ Redick acknowledged the challenge, emphasizing the need for remaining players to step up.
“We feel like we have enough guys that can move, make shots, and defend,” said Redick. “We have a chance to win.”
Bucks Also Dealing with Injuries
The Bucks are not at full strength either. Damian Lillard has been ruled out due to a calf injury. Coach Doc Rivers admitted that both teams are struggling with injuries, though the Bucks may have a slight edge with fewer key absences.
“Not having Luka and LeBron certainly impacts them, but we’ve got our own issues to deal with,” Rivers noted.
Could the Lakers Keep Up Their Home Run?
The Lakers have been playing well, winning nine games in a row at home since February 19. Even without Doncic and Reaves, they will try to keep up that momentum against Milwaukee.
However, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks provide a significant challenge. As a tight playoff race begins, both teams are attempting to win despite their depleted rosters.
Source: AP News