Luka Dončić’s trade to the Los Angeles Lakers gave the team an entirely new look, leading to an eight-game winning streak.
However, those gains have been erased by a four-game losing streak. Dončić did not play in the Lakers’ 131-126 loss to the Denver Nuggets on March 14. Will the Slovenian star suit up against the Phoenix Suns?
Injury Status Update on Luka Dončić for Lakers vs. Suns
The Lakers will host the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, March 16, in what is expected to be a highly competitive matchup. However, Lakers fans are anxiously awaiting Dončić’s status.
The 26-year-old has been dealing with a right ankle sprain, which kept him out of the previous game. However, the Lakers have listed him as probable for Sunday’s contest, increasing the likelihood that he will take the floor at Crypto.com Arena.
With LeBron James sidelined due to a groin injury since the Lakers’ March 8 contest with the Boston Celtics, fans hope Dončić can help get the Lakers back on track. With a 40-25 record, the Lakers are currently ranked No. 5 in the Western Conference but will aim to climb into the top four and secure homecourt advantage in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
Lakers vs. Suns Full Injury Report
As the regular season winds down, multiple teams are dealing with injuries. With playoff positioning on the line, every game matters. The Suns have had their share of injury setbacks, but the Lakers have been hit even harder.
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
Will Jaxson Hayes Play Against the Suns?
Hayes has cemented himself as a reliable starter for the Lakers. However, the 24-year-old has missed four consecutive games due to a knee injury. In his absence, the Lakers have struggled defensively.
Like Dončić, Hayes is listed as probable, and the expectation is that he will play against the Suns. He is likely to be rotated with Alex Len and Trey Jemison III in the March 16 game.
Fans will have a clearer picture of his status closer to tipoff. However, they’ll be hoping to see both Hayes and Dončić return to action at home. The matchup is set for a 3:30 p.m. EST tipoff and will be broadcast on ABC and ESPN+. It can also be streamed on Fubo.