JJ Redick Gives Blunt Response When Asked About Luka Doncic's Game 1 Status
The Los Angeles Lakers advanced to the second round of the 2026 NBA playoffs without Luka Doncic, who is recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Head coach JJ Redick provided no update on Doncic's availability for Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported that Doncic is not close to returning and will likely miss the series' initial games.
- ▪Luka Doncic suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain on April 2 during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
- ▪JJ Redick stated there was 'no update' on Doncic's status ahead of Game 1 of the second-round series.
- ▪Austin Reaves, who also got injured on April 2, returned for the Lakers in Game 5 against the Houston Rockets.
- ▪Brian Windhorst reported that Doncic has not begun the contact ramp-up phase of his recovery.
- ▪LeBron James led the Lakers to a series victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 6.
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By Matt AudiletContributing Sports WriterShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Los Angeles Lakers advanced to the second round of the 2026 NBA playoffs despite the absence of their leading scorer: Luka Doncic.Doncic suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain during a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 2. Now more than a month later, his status for the Lakers' second-round series against the Thunder is in question.During a practice session on Monday, Lakers head coach JJ Redick was asked about Doncic's status for Game 1."No update," Redick replied, via team insider Dave McMenamin of ESPN.Doncic dressed out in full practice gear and did light shooting work in…
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