The LA Lakers are aiming to regain key players Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart, and Jaxson Hayes for their upcoming rematch against the Portland Trail Blazers, while questions remain over LeBron James and Deandre Ayton's availability due to injuries.
In their last meeting on October 27, the Lakers battled without several main players including Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, Jaxson Hayes, Maxi Kleber, and Adou Thiero. This heavily impacted their performance, leading to a 122-108 defeat.
"Neither Doncic, Smart, nor Hayes was placed on the injury report in Sunday's 130-120 win against the Heat and all three finished the game without issues."
"Ayton missed the second half of Friday's 117-112 victory over the Grizzlies and sat out the first game on Sunday due to back spasms."
The Lakers' official injury report is yet to be released, but the returning players could strengthen the lineup significantly for Monday's match.
The Lakers look set to regain important players for their rematch versus Portland, though Deandre Ayton's back issues keep his status uncertain.