The starting lineup for Los Angeles features Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton, selected by head coach JJ Redick and his staff. This group represents one of the few lineups the Lakers have used in recent games without Doncic and Reaves.
With Doncic and Reaves out, other players step up to shoulder the scoring load. Kennard, Smart, Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, and James will carry increased responsibilities as the Lakers try to compensate for the roughly 60 points per game they normally provide with the two stars out.
In the Lakers’ injury report, Doncic and Reaves are the only players listed for Game 1. Jaxson Hayes was cleared to play after a foot issue, and James and Smart had been dealing with foot and ankle concerns but are not listed on the current report. Re-evaluations for Doncic and Reaves are expected next week.
On the Rockets’ side, Kevin Durant is set to miss Game 1 with a knee injury, after originally being listed as questionable. His absence gives Los Angeles a potentially easier path in the series opener as the team waits for updates on Doncic or Reaves.
Game 1 tips off Saturday, April 18, at 5:30 p.m. Pacific and will be broadcast on ABC. The Lakers will monitor the injury timeline for Doncic and Reaves, with the hope that one or both could return later in the series.
As the matchup unfolds, the Lakers’ rotation and offensive balance will be closely watched, particularly if Doncic or Reaves are able to return in the coming days. Until then, the team will rely on its current lineup and path to advance in the first round.
