The Los Angeles Lakers, currently holding a 33–21 record and positioned fifth in the Western Conference, are receiving important injury news as they prepare for their February 20 game against the Los Angeles Clippers. Head coach JJ Redick gave an optimistic report indicating that key players, including Luka Dončić, are expected to be available and ready to contribute.
Redick’s statement came after the Lakers’ first practice back on the court, signaling significant progress in the team’s efforts to overcome recent setbacks caused by injuries.
Coach JJ Redick Discusses Team Availability and Challenges
Lakers reporter Mike Trudell shared on X that Redick confirmed the entire roster is likely to be ready for the upcoming match, a development that includes the return of Luka Dončić. This is particularly important given the challenges the team has faced maintaining consistent player availability.
Reflecting on the season, Redick said,
“It’s funny, we were talking before the season about building continuity with those three guys, and we’ve had them available together for 10 games.”
He further addressed the current situation by stating,
“It’s just the situation we’re in. We’re not the only team that has had a bunch of health issues throughout the season and had to manage that, but my message to the players this morning was that this is going to be a sprint for these last 28 games,”
– JJ Redick, Head Coach.
Details Surrounding Luka Dončić’s Injury Timeline
Dončić suffered a left hamstring injury on February 5 during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers. With just over three minutes remaining in the first half, he was seen limping, after which he left the court and did not return for the remainder of the game. The Lakers confirmed his exit was due to left leg soreness.
Following this incident, Dončić missed the next four regular-season games while managing the injury. Although he appeared briefly in the All-Star game against the USA Stars, playing only five minutes and scoring two points, it was clear he had not yet regained full strength.
Before the injury, Dončić had been performing at an elite level, averaging 32.8 points, 8.6 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game. His upcoming return is expected to provide a major lift for the Lakers as they push through the remainder of the season.
Austin Reaves Set to Remove Playing Restrictions
Alongside Dončić, Austin Reaves has also been recovering from calf issues that sidelined him for about five weeks. Since his return on February 4, the Lakers controlled Reaves’ minutes to facilitate a gradual comeback. Despite those limitations, he maintained an impressive average of 25.4 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game.
Now, with the restriction lifted, Reaves can fully contribute to the Lakers’ efforts, and his presence alongside Dončić strengthens the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
Lakers Positioned for a Strong Finish with Full Roster
With Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves expected to be fully operational, the Lakers regain two of their most vital players simultaneously. This development places them in a much stronger position as the season nears its conclusion. Having overcome substantial health challenges, the Lakers appear ready for an intensive final stretch, where sustained player availability could determine their playoff positioning and success.
JJ Redick, after LA’s first practice back on the court today, said it looks like the Lakers will have everybody back on the court for tomorrow night’s game, including Luka Dončić.
Austin Reaves will also be off his minutes restriction.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 19, 2026
