Luka Dončić remains unavailable in the NBA Playoffs. Los Angeles officially ruled the league’s leading scorer out for Game 4 of the Thunder-Lakers Western Conference semifinals.
Dončić’s Recovery Progress
Dončić has been out since suffering a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on April 2. He told the media on May 6 that he has started running. However, he hasn’t yet been cleared for full contact.
“I’m just doing everything I can,” Dončić said. “Every day, I’m doing things I’m supposed to do. Obviously, I’m recovering, and now I’m working. The doctor said eight weeks at the beginning of the first MRI. So I’m just going day by day, and I feel better every day.”
Thunder’s Williams Also Sidelined
Thunder star Jalen Williams was also ruled out for Game 4 against the Lakers. The game is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. CT on Monday.
Williams remains sidelined with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain that he injured on April 22. He has not played yet in this best-of-seven series. OKC holds a 3-0 lead after earning a 131-108 road win on Saturday.
Game 4 Prediction
Justin Martinez predicts OKC will win 120-101 against Los Angeles. He notes Chet Holmgren has been a dominant force on both ends, and Ajay Mitchell has provided great shot creation and playmaking. He also highlights the impactful play of bench players such as Alex Caruso, Cason Wallace and Jared McCain.
Martinez believes the Lakers haven’t been able to get a win yet, and he doesn’t see that changing with Luka Doncic ruled out for Game 4. He is picking OKC to complete the sweep.