Lakers Without Doncic Face Tough Challenge Against Nuggets

DENVER, CO — The Los Angeles Lakers will be without star guard Luka Doncic for their game against the Denver Nuggets on Friday, March 14, due to a sprained right ankle and a lingering left calf injury. The Lakers announced Doncic’s absence as they face a critical moment in their four-game road trip.

Following a disappointing 126-106 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks the previous night, the Lakers are now looking to avoid extending their three-game losing streak. Doncic, who recently scored 45 points in a performance against Milwaukee, stated he was ‘unsure’ about his playing status before the game but expressed optimism about his healing process.

“I’ve got to get some things off my body. Get them to feel better and then be ready,” Doncic said after Thursday’s loss.

The injury list for the Lakers is extensive, with forward LeBron James (left groin strain) and other key players including Rui Hachimura and Jaxson Hayes sidelined. Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle) and Gabe Vincent (left knee) remain doubtful for the contest against the Nuggets, further complicating the Lakers’ lineup.

With a current record of 40-24, the Lakers hold the fourth spot in the Western Conference standings, just a game behind the Nuggets, who sit at 42-24. As the playoff picture sharpens, each game becomes increasingly crucial for the Lakers. Losing Doncic adds to their challenges as they aim to secure a top-six playoff position.

<p“A week ago, everything was good, so now is not the time to lose faith,” said Austin Reaves, who will likely assume a more prominent role without Doncic. Reaves has been performing solidly, averaging 18.9 points per game and looking to step up against a tough Nuggets team.

The Nuggets also face their own injury concerns with star player Nikola Jokic listed as probable due to an elbow injury. Nonetheless, they remain a formidable offensive unit, ranked third in the league with an average of 121.1 points per game.

The game will take place at Ball Arena and is scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m. ET. It will be broadcast on NBA TV and SportsNet LA, with live streaming available on Fubo.

As the Lakers navigate this challenging stretch, they hope to regain their momentum and lengthen their playoff chances. The team will need to find a way to compete without their star guard against a Nuggets team eager to exploit the Lakers’ vulnerabilities.