π Latest NBA buzz after Luka's injury
Why it matters: Luka Doncic's injury has slashed the Lakers' title odds from 30-1 to 100-1, potentially derailing their playoff run.
- Luka Doncic will miss the remainder of the regular season due to a Grade 2 right hamstring injury, with his playoff status uncertain (ESPN's Shams Charania and Dave McMenamin).
- Lakers' title chances dropped from 30-1 to 100-1 on DraftKings Sportsbook immediately following the news of Doncic's injury.
- Doncic is expected to apply for an "extraordinary circumstances challenge" to the 65-game rule for award consideration, citing two games missed for his daughter's birth (agent Bill Duffy, ESPN's Bobby Marks).
- Stephen Curry is anticipated to return for the Golden State Warriors on Sunday against the Houston Rockets after missing 27 games with a right knee injury.
- Ten eliminated NBA teams are now focused on the May 10 draft lottery, with the 2026 draft widely considered deep and talented, leading to significant tanking efforts.
The NBA regular season is concluding with playoff spots solidifying, but the focus is shifting to the upcoming draft and offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers' championship hopes have plummeted after superstar Luka Doncic was ruled out for the rest of the regular season with a Grade 2 hamstring injury, casting doubt on his playoff availability. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry is set to return for the Golden State Warriors, and the league grapples with overt tanking efforts ahead of a highly anticipated 2026 draft.
