The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for the start of the 2026 NBA playoffs while still navigating uncertainty surrounding Luka Doncic’s injury recovery. The star guard remains sidelined with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain suffered late in the regular season, leaving the team without one of its primary offensive engines ahead of a first-round series against the Houston Rockets.
Doncic’s absence has already reshaped the Lakers’ playoff outlook. Head coach JJ Redick confirmed that both Doncic and Austin Reaves are “out indefinitely,” with no clear timetable for a return. That places added responsibility on LeBron James, who has taken on a larger role as the team’s primary creator entering the postseason.
A new update, however, has shifted attention overseas. According to Donatas Urbonas, Doncic is expected to attend a EuroLeague game in Madrid, where Real Madrid will face Crvena Zvezda. The appearance comes as the guard continues his recovery process in Spain after undergoing specialized treatment.
Luka Doncic expected at Real Madrid vs Crvena Zvezda EuroLeague game in Madrid
GettyLos Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic
Doncic’s presence at the EuroLeague matchup highlights where he currently stands in his recovery timeline. The Lakers guard has been in Spain receiving treatment, including injections, to accelerate the healing of his hamstring injury.
His expected attendance at the Real Madrid game suggests he remains overseas while working through rehab. Madrid holds personal significance for Doncic, who began his professional career with the club before entering the NBA.
While the visit does not provide a direct update on his return-to-play status, it offers confirmation that he is active and mobile during the recovery period. The Lakers are still planning for his absence at the start of the playoff series, with no indication that he will be available for Game 1.
The timing remains critical. Game 1 between the Lakers and Rockets is set for April 18, with the series structured to allow additional recovery time if extended. However, typical timelines for Grade 2 hamstring strains range from 4 to 6 weeks, raising questions about his availability for much of the first round.
Lakers rely on LeBron James as Luka Doncic’s recovery continues
GettyLos Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James
With Doncic sidelined, the Lakers are adjusting both their rotation and offensive structure heading into the postseason. The absence of both Doncic and Reaves removes a combined 56.8 points per game from the lineup, significantly altering the team’s scoring balance.
That shift places increased pressure on James, who closed the regular season in strong form. He averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds while helping the Lakers secure home-court advantage in the first round.
Redick emphasized the team’s focus following practice, stating, “We’ve got to have a playoff mentality this time of year, and I thought our guys did that and they executed it really well.” The approach reflects a need to adapt quickly in the absence of key personnel.
Supporting players such as Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton, Luke Kennard, and others are expected to take on expanded roles. Ball-handling responsibilities will also be distributed more broadly to reduce the load on James.
The Lakers enter the series against a Houston team led by Kevin Durant, presenting a challenging matchup even at full strength. Without Doncic, the margin for error narrows further.
For now, Doncic’s expected appearance in Madrid serves as a reminder that his recovery is ongoing. The Lakers will continue to monitor his progress closely, hoping that additional time in the series could allow for a potential return. Until then, Los Angeles must begin its playoff run without one of its most important players.
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