The Los Angeles Lakers have been navigating a season that feels more like a survival test than a title chase, thanks to a relentless run of injuries. Just when it seemed like they were turning a corner with Austin Reaves returning from a gastrocnemius strain, they were hit with another major blow - Luka Dončić went down with a hamstring strain just one game later.
Dončić has now missed four straight games, including Thursday night’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. His status for this weekend's NBA All-Star Game remains up in the air, but there’s some optimism on the horizon. Head coach JJ Redick indicated that Dončić is expected to be ready when the Lakers return to action after the break, with a showdown against the Clippers on deck for February 20.
And that’s welcome news, because the Lakers need every ounce of what Dončić brings. He’s not just having a strong season - he’s leading the league in scoring, averaging 32.8 points per game on 47.3% shooting from the field.
Add in 7.8 rebounds, 8.6 assists, and 1.5 steals a night, and you’ve got a player who’s doing just about everything. He’s also getting to the line more than anyone else in the league and converting at a high clip, while ranking third in assists per game.
In short, he’s been the engine, the fuel, and the GPS for this team.
Before Thursday’s game, the Lakers sat at 32-21, good for sixth in the Western Conference standings. That’s a solid spot, but the margin for error is razor thin in a West that’s as deep and competitive as it’s been in years.
The upcoming stretch could prove pivotal - 10 of their next 13 games will be played at home at Crypto.com Arena. That’s a golden opportunity to build some momentum, especially if Dončić is back in the fold and Reaves can stay healthy.
The Lakers have shown flashes of what they can be when their stars are on the floor together. The challenge now is staying healthy long enough to build continuity and chemistry - because when this team is whole, they’re not just a playoff squad. They’re a problem.