Luka Doncic Out Vs Suns Could Play Christmas Vs Rockets

Merlin sees Luka Dončić ruled out for Tuesday’s game vs the Phoenix Suns with a left calf contusion, though ESPN’s Dave McMenamin says there is still “a very real possibility” he will play Thursday on Christmas against the Houston Rockets. The Lakers plan “some sort of wrap or perhaps padding” to protect his leg. Dončić leads the NBA at 35.2 points per game and his absence deepens a roster already missing Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura. Saturday he left the Clippers game after being “visibly limping” and finished with 12 points in 20 minutes after starting 0 for 16. Merlin notes this echoes a similar October contusion that cost him time. If he returns on Christmas expect limited minutes and cautionary protection while the Lakers try to get healthier around him.