Despite the injuries, the Lakers earned the Western Conference’s No. 4 seed with a 53-29 record, providing home-court advantage as the series begins.
With Reaves and Doncic sidelined, two of the Lakers’ top three players will miss the opener, forcing the rotation to adapt as they try to grab an early series edge.
News of the out status was relayed by NBA analyst Jovan Buha, who reported Redick’s announcement ahead of Saturday’s tip.
There has been ongoing attention on Reaves’ status leading into Game 1, reflecting the broader focus on how the Lakers will manage without both listed stars in this pivotal matchup.
The series is set to tip off Saturday at the Lakers’ home arena, with teams focused on adjusting roles and game plans as they begin the best-of-seven series.
