The Los Angeles Lakers have been navigating a challenging stretch of injuries over recent weeks, but they have managed to maintain a strong position in the Western Conference, boasting a record of 19-8. Despite their overall success, the team has recently appeared vulnerable, especially ahead of their matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.
As the game approached, the Lakers found themselves without three starting players: guard Austin Reaves, forward Rui Hachimura, and center Deandre Ayton, in addition to backup guard Gabe Vincent. The situation worsened during the game when superstar Luka Doncic was forced to leave the court due to a lower left leg contusion.
Reaves and Ayton are expected to return to action for the Lakers on Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns, while Hachimura and Vincent remain sidelined. Hachimura has been dealing with a sore right groin since the team’s last victory over the Utah Jazz, and Vincent is recovering from a lumbar back strain, with plans for reassessment in the coming week.
In another setback for the Lakers, Jaxson Hayes, Ayton’s backup, exited Tuesday’s game early due to an ankle injury after just 5 minutes of play. Prior to his exit, Hayes scored two points from the free-throw line but took no field goal attempts and recorded one rebound. The Suns were dominating the game, leading the Lakers by almost 30 points as the clock wound down.
Hayes stepped into a starting role following the trade that sent 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Doncic. While Hayes showcased his athleticism and ability as a lob threat with Doncic, his limited scoring options led to decreased trust from head coach JJ Redick during the playoffs last season, culminating in being benched during a crucial Game 5.
Ayton, who signed a two-year deal worth $16.2 million this summer, was brought in to secure the center position, while Hayes also re-signed for a one-year contract worth $3.6 million. Thus far this season, Hayes has averaged 6.0 points on a notable shooting percentage, alongside 4.2 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game.
As the Lakers aim for a bounce-back against the Suns, their ability to overcome injuries and regroup will be critical in maintaining their competitive edge in the Western Conference. With strategic adjustments and the anticipated returns of key players, there remains hope for the Lakers to stabilize and enhance their performance as the season progresses.