The Los Angeles Lakers have faced some setbacks with injuries this week. First, Luka Doncic sustained a hamstring injury that will keep him out for the remainder of the regular season and possibly longer. Then, Austin Reaves suffered a season-ending oblique injury.
LeBron James shared his reaction to the injuries after the Lakers’ loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday.
“It was a shot to the heart and the chest and the mainframe with Luka,” James told reporters. “I woke up from my nap yesterday and saw that [Reaves] news and was like, ‘S–t.'”
The injury news is particularly tough for the Lakers as they have been performing well recently. Los Angeles had won 16 of their last 18 games before Doncic’s injury and appeared to be a strong playoff contender.
Doncic has been exceptional, averaging 37.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in March.
While Doncic’s injury may not be catastrophic since the Lakers have secured a playoff spot, it would be challenging for them to advance past the first round without him.
Reportedly, Doncic will head to Europe this week for specialized medical treatment to expedite his return to the court.
The Lakers’ playoff prospects would greatly improve if Doncic can come back, but losing Reaves is still a significant setback. Reaves had a standout season in 2025-26, averaging 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.
Currently, Los Angeles is in third place in the Western Conference, but their seeding could drop as low as sixth in the final week due to the tight competition. This means that the 41-year-old James may have to step up as the primary option to lead the Lakers in a challenging stretch against the Thunder, Warriors, Suns, and Jazz.
