Luka Dončić injury update

Lakers star Luka Dončić is expected to return to Los Angeles on Friday after receiving specialized treatment in Europe for a Grade 2 left hamstring strain.

While his return is a positive sign, there is still no definitive timetable for when he will be cleared to play in the postseason.

The Lakers are preparing for their first-round series against the Houston Rockets, with LeBron James expected to carry a heavier load in Dončić's absence.

The team's playoff hopes largely hinge on the health of their superstar backcourt.