The Los Angeles Lakers begin a difficult playoff challenge tomorrow. They face the Oklahoma City Thunder in a best-of-seven series as clear underdogs once again.
A similar situation unfolded in the previous round against the Houston Rockets. On that occasion, the Lakers managed to compete, especially amid Kevin Durant’s absence, but the margin for error is even smaller this time.
Having Luka Doncic available would significantly improve their chances. However, the latest update suggests the star guard is still far from making his return.
Brian Windhorst delivers concerning update on Luka Doncic recovery
ESPN journalist Brian Windhorst outlined the situation on Get Up this Monday. His comments indicated that Doncic is not yet close to resuming full basketball activity.
“He is not close. There is a whole ramp up that is required when you are coming back from a hamstring,” Windhorst said. “He has not started that contact ramp up yet.”
He added: “The Lakers got a break by starting this series a little bit after, by resting LeBron, but it has not brought Luka back. A series lasts 14 days. I don’t know where they’ll be in 10 days, but do not expect to see Luka in the first few games of the series.”
Doncic’s importance to the team makes that setback even more significant. According to SofaScore, he averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists during the regular season.
Those numbers placed him firmly in MVP conversations at different points. His absence removes the team’s primary scorer and playmaker against the league’s best team.
Lakers production drops significantly without Luka Doncic
The statistical difference with and without Doncic is clear. His presence transforms the Lakers’ overall effectiveness on both ends.
According to StatMuse, the Lakers hold a 14-10 record without him across the 2026 regular season and playoffs. They have averaged 111.1 points per game in those contests.
With Doncic available, the numbers improve notably. The team is 43-21 and scores 116.9 points per game, reflecting his offensive impact.
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