Doncic Expected to Miss Start of Potential Lakers-Thunder Series

Why it matters locally: Luka Doncic's possible absence at the start of a potential series against the Oklahoma City Thunder could improve the Thunder's chances of advancing further in the playoffs. The Thunder are currently awaiting the winner of the Lakers-Rockets series after sweeping the Phoenix Suns in the first round.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic is expected to miss the start of a possible second-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a hamstring strain. Doncic sustained the injury on April 2 against Oklahoma City and has been sidelined for nearly a month. The Lakers currently hold a 3-1 lead in their first-round series against the Houston Rockets. Forward LeBron James and guard Austin Reaves are expected to play key roles for Los Angeles. Reaves recently returned from an oblique strain sustained in the same game Doncic was injured. The Oklahoma City Thunder await the winner of the Lakers-Rockets series after sweeping the Phoenix Suns in the first round. The status of Thunder guard Jalen Williams is currently unknown; he is week-to-week with a hamstring strain sustained during the first round.