Lakers star Luka Doncic reveals uncertain return from hamstring injury
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic remains uncertain about his return from a severe hamstring strain that has sidelined him from the NBA playoffs since early April.
The MVP candidate suffered a Grade 2 tear against the Oklahoma City Thunder on 2 April and has not featured for his team since.
Speaking from the team hotel on Wednesday, the prominent guard admitted his immense frustration at missing the crucial postseason period.
“I don’t think people understand how frustrating it is,” Doncic told reporters.
“All I want to do is play basketball, especially this time. It’s the best time to play basketball.”
Extended recovery timeline
Initial medical assessments suggested the Lakers talisman would require an eight-week recovery period.
Thursday’s Game 2 of the second-round playoff series marks exactly five weeks since the initial incident occurred.
When questioned about a potential return for Games 3 and 4 in Los Angeles, the sidelined star remained noncommittal.
“I’m just doing everything I can,” he explained.
“Just going day by day, and I feel better every day.”
Specialist treatment in Spain
In an effort to accelerate his rehabilitation, the franchise cornerstone travelled to Europe for platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.
He received four separate injections in Spain, with each treatment spaced four days apart with the approval of team doctors.
The current physical issue is an aggravation of a previous strain to the same muscle that forced him to miss four games earlier in the campaign.
Having previously rushed back from setbacks with poor results, the 25-year-old is proceeding with extreme caution and has yet to resume contact drills.
Lakers continuing playoff push
Despite missing their top performer, Los Angeles successfully eliminated the Houston Rockets in six games during the opening round.
They are now challenging the defending champion Thunder without their primary offensive weapon.
“It’s very frustrating seeing what my team is doing,” Doncic added.
“I’m very proud of them. It’s been very tough to just sit and watch them play.”