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Lakers' Playoff Hopes Dim as Stars Out Indefinitely
15 Apr
Summary
- Dončić and Reaves out indefinitely with hamstring and oblique injuries.
- Lakers face Rockets without their top two scorers in playoffs.
- LeBron James resumes focal point role as Lakers aim to advance.

The Los Angeles Lakers will begin their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets without their two leading scorers, Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Both players have been sidelined indefinitely due to injuries sustained recently. Dončić is recovering from a hamstring strain, while Reaves is dealing with an oblique strain. Their combined absence significantly impacts the team's offensive capabilities heading into the postseason.
Despite missing their star duo, the Lakers managed to secure home-court advantage in the first round, finishing the regular season with a 3-2 record in their absence. LeBron James has resumed his role as the primary offensive focal point. The team is also bolstered by the return of Marcus Smart from a nearly three-week ankle injury layoff and the continued availability of Luke Kennard as a ballhandler. Backup center Jaxson Hayes is also ready to play after resting a foot injury.