The Los Angeles Lakers may be dominating their first-round series — but the biggest development could still be ahead.
Lakers Insider Predicts Luka Dončić Early Second-Round Return
Lakers beat reporter Jovan Buha believes Luka Dončić could return sooner than expected — just not in the current series.
Speaking on his Buha’s Block podcast, Buha projected that Dončić’s comeback could come in the early second round.
“If I had to guess, I would say Game 1 or Game 2 of the second round,” Buha said. “But it’s a fluid situation that could change dramatically overnight.”
Cautious Approach With Luka Dončić Injury
Dončić has been sidelined since April 2 with a hamstring injury and has yet to make his debut in the first-round series against the Houston Rockets. But he’s making his presence felt on the sidelines.
Unlike Austin Reaves — who was given a clear four-to-six-week timeline for his oblique injury — the Lakers have not provided a firm return window for Dončić.
That uncertainty, Buha noted, is intentional.
“With Luka, they have not given a timetable, so that has been open-ended,” Buha said.
3-0 Lead Removes Urgency for Los Angeles
The Lakers’ unexpected 3-0 lead has dramatically shifted the timeline.
Buha emphasized that there is no incentive to rush Dončić back while the team remains in control.
“When you’re up 3-0 in the series, there’s no reason to bring Luka back in this series,” he said.
Los Angeles is now one win away from advancing, and history is firmly on its side. Teams holding a 3-0 series lead are a perfect 159-0 in NBA playoff history.
Lakers Prioritize Rest Ahead of Potential Thunder Matchup
Instead, the focus has shifted toward ensuring Dončić is fully healthy for the next round.
“I think the goal should be to close out this series without Luka, buy him some more time, buy him some more rest,” Buha said.
If the Lakers advance, they are expected to face the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder.
That potential matchup adds even more importance to Dončić’s recovery timeline.
Luka Dončić Recovery Progress Continues
Dončić has traveled to Europe to undergo specialized treatment aimed at accelerating his recovery.
Lakers coach JJ Redick previously said the superstar is expected to begin his return-to-play progression soon, though no firm date has been set.
The team’s cautious approach reflects both the severity of hamstring injuries and the stakes of a deep playoff run.
Lakers Could Benefit From Thunder Injury Situation
The timeline could also work in Los Angeles’ favor depending on developments elsewhere in the bracket.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder has sustained a hamstring strain that will sideline him for a significant time.
“Thunder’s Jalen Williams has sustained a Grade 1 left hamstring strain and will be re-evaluated on a weekly basis,” Charania reported on X.
A prolonged series between Oklahoma City and the Phoenix Suns would give Dončić additional recovery time before a potential second-round matchup.
Lakers Closing In on Next Stage
With Game 4 looming in Houston, the Lakers are on the verge of advancing without their top scorer.
And if Buha’s projection holds, Dončić’s return could arrive just as the stakes rise — giving Los Angeles a potential boost at the perfect time.
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