The Los Angeles Lakers have had a volatile season. They opened like true title contenders before settling closer to their reality, but things do not look good late. Despite a star-studded roster, the team still lacks the defensive edge needed to make a deep run. Much of what they have managed has leaned heavily on Luka Doncic, who stood out again in the loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Naturally, his availability will play a key role in the fixture against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. But is he playing?

Is Luka Doncic playing tonight against the Wizards?

There are some doubts over Luka Doncic’s participation in Friday’s contest against the Wizards.

The star guard is listed as questionable due to left ankle soreness. It all started in the previous game when he tweaked his ankle and blamed the court in Cleveland. He limped off to the dressing room and then returned in the second half and continued playing. So it shouldn’t be much of an issue. Further clarity around his participation in this game will be provided at the shoot-around.

Doncic recorded 29 points, six assists, and five rebounds from only 30 minutes last night while shooting 60% from the field as the Lakers lost 99-129 against the Cavs.

Overall, the Slovenian has been putting up sensational numbers this season, and the numbers are even better in the last 10 games, as he is averaging 34.6 points per contest, slightly more than his season points average of 33.6 points. The 26-year-old, who is currently the scoring leader in the league, has been the biggest offensive weapon for the Purple and Gold this season.

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Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards Injury Report

Apart from the uncertainty around Doncic’s participation, the Lakers have two usual suspects on their injury report heading into Friday’s game. Meanwhile, the Wizards have been plagued by injuries, as they have multiple players out of contention for this home contest. Let us take a closer look at the injury reports of both teams.

Los Angeles Lakers Injury Report

The biggest news around the Lakers’ injury report is Luka Doncic getting listed as questionable with left ankle soreness. It is probably a precautionary measure regarding the issue that the star guard suffered in Cleveland. However, he pulled through and played the second half with no issue and may suit up again on Friday.

Other than him, rookie Adou Thiero is unavailable for this game due to an MCL sprain. The only good news for the Lakers is that after missing weeks of action, Austin Reaves has been upgraded to questionable for this away contest, and he may get a few minutes off the bench.

Washington Wizards Injury Report

The Washington Wizards have been plagued by injuries this season, which has been their undoing. However, Alex Sarr started the previous game and is off the injury list for this one, despite having some illness, which is a big bonus for the Wizards.

Meanwhile, Khris Middleton is probable for this game due to a foot issue. He featured in the last two games and played a significant role in their wins. Similarly, Tre Johnson is also probable for this game after sustaining a left ankle sprain in their last game against the Bucks.

Other absentees include recently traded superstar Trae Young, who is out with a knee and quadriceps injury and will only be re-evaluated during the All-Star break.

Tristan Vukcevic (left hamstring strain) and Marvin Bagley III (thoracic strain) are also unavailable for this contest. Cam Whitmore will miss the remainder of the season as he has begun recovery from a diagnosed venous condition.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards predicted starting lineups

Based on the latest injury updates, here’s how both teams could lineup for this epic showdown in the capital.

We expect Doncic to start this game despite his inclusion in the injury report. Once again, the onus will be on him to do the heavy lifting in offense and guide the Lakers to victory. There’s a possibility that we may see Austin Reaves play a role off the bench after spending multiple games on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, the Wizards have multiple players unavailable, but they still have a strong young core to compete with the Lakers at home. Kyshawn George is in great rhythm after he dropped a 23-point performance against the Bucks, whereas Khris Middleton will also play a crucial role with all his experience.