dailyloe.com – The Los Angeles Lakers have cleared guard Marcus Smart to return from injury ahead of their Friday game against the Phoenix Suns. Smart had been sidelined with a right ankle contusion, missing nine consecutive games. His last appearance was on March 21 against the Orlando Magic. The Lakers are pushing to secure a top-four seed and home-court advantage for the playoffs.
The team released its injury report for the Suns game, and Smart was not listed. This indicates he has been medically cleared to return to action. His return provides a needed backcourt presence alongside LeBron James. The Lakers are looking to finish the regular season strong after a road win over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday.
Smart’s absence had been amplified by injuries to other key scorers. Luka Doncic is out with a hamstring injury for the remainder of the regular season. Austin Reaves is also sidelined with a Grade 2 oblique strain. Both stars are ruled out for the rest of the regular season.
Smart’s return is significant given the current roster situation. He is known for his perimeter defense and playmaking abilities. He provides structure for the Lakers on both ends of the court. With Doncic and Reaves unavailable, his role becomes more defined as the team prepares for the postseason.
The Lakers are preparing for a potential first-round playoff matchup with the Houston Rockets. However, the team still has other injury concerns beyond Smart’s return. Jaxson Hayes is out for Friday’s game against the Suns. Luke Kennard has also been downgraded to questionable for the contest.[]
Source: Yahoo Sports
