The Western Conference semifinals will tip off without two of its brightest guards. Luka Doncic of the Lakers and Jalen Williams of the Thunder have both been ruled out for Game 1 due to hamstring injuries, leaving their teams shorthanded in Tuesday’s opener. Yankee Scores reports.
Doncic Still Recovering
Doncic, the league’s scoring champion, has been sidelined for a month since injuring his hamstring in Oklahoma City. He averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists during the regular season, but his return remains uncertain.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said recovery could take up to two months, though Doncic was seen shooting threes with teammates on Monday while they finished up with workout before the team’s flight.
Williams Progressing, But Not Ready
Williams, a 2025 All‑Star, missed the final two games of the Thunder’s first‑round sweep of Phoenix with an hamstring injury. He had been averaging 20.5 points on 61.5% shooting before his injury in Game 2.
Coach Mark Daigneault noted Williams is “progressing,” but stopped short of declaring him fit for Game 1. William averaged 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in an injury plague season.
Ajay Mitchell has stepped into the starting lineup in his absence.
Impact on the Semifinals
Both absences are significant. The Lakers lose their offensive engine, while the Thunder are without one of their most versatile playmakers. With the series opening in Oklahoma City, the spotlight shifts to how each team adjusts without their stars. The stakes are high, and Game 1 will test the depth of both rosters.
