JJ Redick didn’t exactly gush about Luka Doncic’s impact from the sidelines. Ahead of Game 2 against the Thunder, the Lakers’ head coach admitted he “hasn’t really seen a lot” when asked about Doncic contributing strategically while recovering from his Grade 2 hamstring strain. Considering Luka’s reputation as one of the league’s sharpest basketball minds, the comment immediately raised eyebrows.

“I haven’t really seen a lot of that,” Redick said during the pregame media session. “Obviously, I’m not on the bench during games, so I don’t know what gets discussed during the games.” The response felt surprising, especially given Redick has spent most of the season praising Doncic’s IQ, playmaking instincts, and command of the offense. It also comes from someone who shares a long history with the Slovenian star, dating back to their Dallas days, making the remark stand out even more as Luka continues to watch from the bench.

JJ Redick previously stated that he and Luka Doncic have a “great relationship” built on a six-year history. They even had a heated exchange during the March matchup against the Warriors, where they argued on the bench. But the head coach called such intense, competitive discussions normal for them. While he may not have seen the positive impact so far, the 6x All-Star’s teammates have noticed and acknowledged it. Roughly 2 weeks ago, when the Slovenian returned to practice after his treatment, there was a visible difference.

“People don’t know how much impact Luka has not only on the court, but off the court,” Lakers forward Rui Hachimura said. “He is a guy that always wants to be around with us. We love him just hanging out and talking. So we’re happy that he’s back finally. He’s doing funny things like always.” Similarly, Lakers reserve center Jaxson Hayes praised both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves for their key contributions from the bench.

“Them helping out guys on the bench and just watching the game from that view,” he said. “You can see different things that you don’t necessarily see when you’re in the game. They’re able to tell guys stuff and help out as much as possible.” Even during Game 1 against the Thunder, Doncic showed disappointment as he was unable to help his team.

Redick’s comments are not entirely unusual in NBA circles. Coaches have often viewed injured stars’ impact on the sideline through different lenses, depending on personality and leadership style. Gregg Popovich once said Kawhi Leonard was ‘never going to be a towel waver,’ while still praising the former Spurs star for contributing during timeouts and team discussions instead of being outwardly vocal.

More recently, Giannis Antetokounmpo drew praise from teammates during Milwaukee’s 2021 playoff run for becoming noticeably more vocal from the bench while sidelined with injury. There have also been cases where strong bench involvement created friction, particularly with veteran stars like Chris Paul, whose vocal leadership style reportedly clashed with coaches and teammates during his later years.

When will Luka Doncic return?

The 6x All-Star was officially ruled out of Game 2 against OKC with a Grade 2 hamstring strain and will miss his eighth playoff game this season. In fact, there is still no clear timetable for his return. There are some positive signs, though. Luka Doncic has resumed running, marking an important step in his recovery process. But he has still not yet been cleared for full-contact activity, meaning he is still not close to returning to game action. Previous reports suggested that the 27-year-old was supposed to return for Game 3 or 4. But lack of physical activity has been concerning.

“I’m just doing everything I can,” Luka said on Wednesday. “Every day I’m doing stuff I’m supposed to do. You know, obviously recovering now, working. Like I said, doctors said eight weeks at the beginning of the first time around. So, you know, I’m just going day by day, and I feel better every day.” The Slovenian also confirmed that he traveled to Spain for platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to speed up his recovery. While he remains frustrated, the head coach did not want to rush his 6x All-Star back.

JJ Redick emphasized that the team will not rush Doncic back. The Lakers dropped Game 1 to the top-seeded Thunder, 108-90. Even LeBron James stated that the Slovenian remains the mixing piece of their offense. But the 41-year-old will have to carry the burden as Luka remains out.