The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to finish the regular season strong as they push to secure a top-four seed and home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. They face the Phoenix Suns on Friday night on the second leg of a back-to-back after defeating the Golden State Warriors on the road on Thursday.
The Lakers have been shorthanded during the final stretch of the regular season, particularly without Marcus Smart, who has been sidelined with a right ankle contusion. Smart has missed nine consecutive games, with his last appearance coming on March 21 against the Orlando Magic.
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Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36)Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
His absence has been amplified by injuries to key scorers. Luka Doncic is out with a hamstring injury, while Austin Reaves is sidelined with a Grade 2 oblique strain, ruling both stars out for the remainder of the regular season.
Ahead of the Suns game, the Lakers released their injury report, and Smart was not listed, indicating he has been cleared to return. That gives Los Angeles a needed backcourt presence alongside LeBron James as they look to secure another win heading into the playoffs.
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Smart’s return is significant given the current roster situation. Known for his perimeter defense and playmaking, he provides structure on both ends. With Doncic and Reaves unavailable, his role becomes more defined as the Lakers prepare for postseason play and a potential first-round matchup with the Houston Rockets.
However, there are still injury concerns. Jaxson Hayes is out for Friday’s game, joining Doncic and Reaves on the sidelines, while Luke Kennard has been downgraded to questionable.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
