Luka Dončić’s trade to the Los Angeles Lakers signaled their push to overcome challenges and make a championship run. However, the Slovenian star’s injury has been a major setback to the Lakers’ plans.
After an eight-game winning streak, Los Angeles has now lost four straight, dealing with a grueling schedule and multiple injuries.
Will Luka Dončić Play Against the Suns?
The Lakers are set to take on the struggling Phoenix Suns at Crypto.com Arena. The team will be counting on Dončić’s return after his absence contributed to a 126-106 loss to the Denver Nuggets on March 14.
According to the latest injury report, the Lakers have listed Dončić as probable for their March 16 game. The 26-year-old has been managing a right ankle sprain, but his probable designation suggests he should see some game time.
However, the team will provide more clarity closer to tipoff, and Lakers fans will take this as a positive sign.
Lakers vs. Suns Injury Report
Both teams have been dealing with injuries late in the regular season. However, the Lakers have been hit harder than their rivals for the matchup.
Los Angeles Lakers:
- Luka Dončić (calf) – Probable
- Jaxson Hayes (knee) – Probable
- Dalton Knecht (back) – Probable
- Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle) – Questionable
- Gabe Vincent (knee) – Questionable
- LeBron James (leg) – Out
- Rui Hachimura (knee) – Out
- Maxi Kleber (foot) – Out
Phoenix Suns:
- Grayson Allen (foot) – Out
- Monte Morris (back) – Questionable
Lakers vs. Suns: Projected Lineups for Sunday’s Matchup
With Allen ruled out, the Suns will have a tougher challenge in Los Angeles. However, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker will play pivotal roles.
Meanwhile, the Lakers’ injuries have limited their options, and they will rely on their bench to snap their losing streak.
Los Angeles Lakers:
- PG: Luka Dončić (if cleared; otherwise, Gabe Vincent or Shake Milton could start)
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: Dorian Finney-Smith (if cleared; otherwise, Jordan Goodwin)
- PF: Jarred Vanderbilt
- C: Jaxson Hayes
Christian Koloko and LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, will likely come off the bench to provide support.
Phoenix Suns:
- PG: Devin Booker
- SG: Bradley Beal
- SF: Ryan Dunn
- PF: Kevin Durant
- C: Mason Plumlee
The Suns have a deep bench and will likely use it against the Lakers. Royce O’Neale, Tyus Jones and Osho Ighodaro are expected to play rotational minutes.
The Lakers have struggled against the Suns this season, losing two of the three games in their series. In this scenario, having Dončić available is even more crucial. With the five-time NBA All-Star in the lineup, the Lakers have a better chance to even the series at 2-2.