The LA Lakers find themselves in a precarious position ahead of their next game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are both out for this game due to injury. This matchup, scheduled for later this week, is particularly critical, given the teams’ competitive standings in the Western Conference.
Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks star player, landing on the injury report. He’s rehabbing a mild contusion management issue in his lower left leg. This injury resulted in him missing a three-game week last week. Doncic has been the hottest player in the league this season, putting up 41.3 points per game on 54.5% shooting. With averages of 11.5 rebounds and 8.3 assists, he’s the main driving force behind his team’s success.
The Lakers are dealing with their own injury misfortunes. Austin Reaves has been dealing with soreness in his right groin. Unfortunately, he will be out for this pivotal match-up against the Blazers. Reaves had a great run this season, never missing a game before his injury. He’s averaged 31.1 points on 48.9% shooting, along with 9.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game.
The Lakers improbably have a tough mountain to climb with LeBron James now out for the duration with right sciatica. On top of all that, Gabe Vincent is out with a left ankle sprain. Forward Adou Thiero is still out as he continues his recovery from left knee surgery. Just like the Lakers have bounced back from adversity and opened the season 2-0! Their current 5-2 record has them sitting in third place of the vaunted Western Conference.
Hot on their tail are the Portland Trail Blazers, who sit at 4-2 on the season so far. One of the Lakers’ two losses came against the Blazers earlier in the season, heightening the stakes for this upcoming matchup.
Deandre Ayton is up in the air as he is questionable with back spasms. Ayton sat out the second half of the Lakers’ recent win over Memphis. He missed his team’s victory over the Miami Heat. His availability would be a huge boon for both the offense and defense. Each team is looking to cement their place as championship hopefuls early in the season.
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