As the Houston Rockets prepare for their Game 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, they received a dangerous warning.
Luka Doncic is making his way back to the court.
Since the start of the first-round series, the Rockets have had two major question marks surrounding their core group. Doncic is dealing with a hamstring injury, while Austin Reaves has an oblique-related setback.
Neither player was available for the final five games of the season. Both guys missed Game 1 as well. Reaves’ status remains unclear, but Doncic seems to be making positive progress for the Lakers, as he was seen on the court putting up shots at Lakers practice on Monday, April 20.
Luka Doncic Returns To Practice
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 12: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the second half of a game against the Chicago Bulls at Crypto.com Arena on March 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
Dave McMenamin, ESPN: Luka Doncic back on the Lakers practice court
“It’s been really nice. He definitely rebounded and passed on some shooting drills,” Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters after Monday’s session. “Having the group together two out of the last three days has been really nice.”
The Lakers still haven’t placed a return date on the table for Doncic, but Monday’s scene was positive progress. For the Rockets, that’s a clear sign they have to get it together before it’s too late.
The Rockets Trail After One
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 18: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
Before the series started, the Rockets were the overwhelming favorite to win this series. Without Doncic and Reaves, many believed that the Lakers didn’t stand a chance.
Houston suddenly lost its top star, Kevin Durant, ahead of Game 1. The Lakers took advantage of the situation and defeated Houston 107-98.
Now, the Rockets trail. Kevin Durant’s injury is still a question mark, and Doncic seems to be on his way to returning sometime soon.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 7, 2026: Injured Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) sits on the bench in street clothes next to Los Angeles Lakers forward Maxi Kleber (14) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15), right, during the game against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 7, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)e teammates as the Los Angeles Lakers deal with injuries to key players ahead of the playoffs.
The last time Doncic faced the Rockets was during a two games in three days stretch. In the first outing (March 16), Doncic scored 36 points, while producing four assists and six rebounds in a 100-92 win for the Rockets.
During the second matchup (March 18), Doncic scored 40 points, along with 10 assists, and nine rebounds in a 124-116 Lakers win.
Game 2 between the Lakers and the Rockets is set to take place at 10:30 PM ET on Tuesday, April 21.