The Lakers nearly pulled off the impossible against the Nuggets on Friday. Despite playing without LeBron James and Luka Doncic, they were just seconds away from beating Nikola Jokic and Co. However, longtime Lakers Killer – Jamal Murray’s dagger three-pointer shattered the visitors’ hopes. Today, the LA team is looking to shake off the heartbreaking loss as they take on the Suns. And boosting their chances of victory is the potential return of Doncic and another key star.
After missing Friday’s game with left calf injury management and right ankle sprain, Doncic is expected to return today as he is listed as probable on the latest injury report. Obviously, that would be a massive advantage for the Lakers because Luka has been in incredible form recently, averaging 32 points and nine assists in March.
Even in his last appearance, Luka dropped a 45-point double-double against the Bucks – his highest score in the Purple and Gold uniform. While the Slovenian Sensation’s return will significantly improve the Lakers’ offense, their defense will also become stronger with the potential comeback of Jaxson Hayes.
Well, the seven-footer has been sidelined for four straight games due to right knee contusion. But he is likely to suit up today as his status has also been upgraded to probable. That means we could see the amazing pick and roll action between Doncic and Hayes. Of course, Hayes has been a key contributor to Lakers’ success, averaging 6.4 points and one block. And he has looked even better playing alongside Luka.
Nov 10, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) fives Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) after scoring against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, Dalton Knecht, who took a nasty fall toward the end of Friday’s game is also deemed probable. That’s great news, considering the rookie fell back first on the hardwood followed by his head hitting the floor hard, raising major concerns about his health. But a probable status assures that Knecht was not seriously injured. Apart from the injury scare, he had an incredible outing, finishing with 32 points. The Lakers would expect a similar performance against the Suns, especially in the absence of King James.
LeBron James remains OUT as Two key players’ availability still Uncertain for Suns clash
When LeBron returned to LA instead of continuing the road trip with his team, it sparked major concerns about his health. However, JJ Redick confirmed that he would be day-to-day going forward and could return soon. Unfortunately, that will not happen today as LBJ has been ruled out for his fourth straight game with a left groin strain. Joining him on the sidelines are Rui Hachimura and Maxi Kleber.
Looks like Rui and LeBron will remain out tomorrow but Jaxson Hayes will be back pic.twitter.com/GAvda90rQP
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) March 15, 2025
Meanwhile, there is major uncertainty around two key players. After sitting out in Denver, Gabe Vincent has been deemed questionable for the home game due to left knee injury management. Although the sharpshooter has not been consistent, he has proved his worth on multiple occasions. Earlier this week, he dropped 24 points in Brooklyn. So, Gabe’s absence would be a major blow to the team.
Joining the list is Dorian Finney-Smith, who is also questionable due to left ankle injury management. He too was unavailable on Friday. This lengthy injury reports shows that the Lakers are still far from returning to complete strength. But the return of Luka and Hayes is a huge boost and could help them snap their dreaded four-game losing streak. Do you think the Lakers can protect home court to end the week on a positive note?
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