Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers superstar) will not return for the start of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a Grade 2 hamstring strain that has kept him sidelined for a month. NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the Lakers are evaluating Doncic's recovery on a week-to-week basis, as the medical staff takes a cautious approach to avoid any setbacks with their star player. Although Doncic has gradually increased his practice workload, he has not yet participated in full basketball activities, focusing on individual drills rather than team scrimmages. Despite his absence, the Lakers have shown resilience, winning seven games in the playoffs, including a challenging first-round series against the Houston Rockets. However, they face a significantly tougher opponent in the defending champion Thunder, which will require strong performances from other players like Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard while Doncic remains out. The Lakers remain hopeful for his return later in the postseason.