Luka Doncic Rehabbing Hamstring in Spain, Spirits High

Luka Dončić is in "relatively good spirits" while rehabbing a Grade 2 left hamstring strain overseas, coach JJ Redick said. Dončić went to Spain for an injection aimed to "promote healing" after the injury cost him the end of the regular season and possibly more. He was having an MVP-caliber year — 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds — and the Lakers are 50-29. Austin Reaves also suffered an oblique injury late, adding to Los Angeles’ health concerns. Merlin sees a team that looks championship ready only when whole. The procedure and positive mood are encouraging, but hamstrings are fickle and recovery timing is unclear. If Dončić returns close to form and Reaves is healthy, the Lakers can still threaten the Finals. If not, their path narrows fast.