Luka Doncic draws Ric Flair’s anger during Lakers-Thunder game
· Yahoo Sports
Luka Doncic missed Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference semifinals on Tuesday. He is still recovering from a Grade 2 hamstring strain he suffered on April 2 and has missed the entire playoffs so far.
The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a big test in the second round as the Oklahoma City Thunder stand in their way. They struggled in Game 1 on the road, losing 108-90. The Slovenian star’s absence was noticeable, as the team couldn’t match the defending champions’ offensive firepower.
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Many Lakers fans were frustrated with Tuesday’s performance, including Ric Flair. The WWE legend didn’t hold back with his message for Doncic on X.
“Luka, Please Get In The Game! Take A Shot Of Cortisone And Deal With The Pain! They Are Paying You 50 Million A Year, And You’re Not There! WTF! I Hope Jeanie Buss Trades You Next Year. Nobody Wants A Lame Duck On Their Team!” Flair wrote.
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic (77) reacts to a play. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images
Luka Doncic could return in the Lakers’ series against Thunder
Flair’s frustration may have stemmed from knowing that Los Angeles is a huge underdog against Oklahoma City. LeBron James stepped up in the first round in Doncic’s absence. However, he needs the six-time All-Star to help him topple Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and company.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Sunday that Doncic will likely miss the start of the second round. His sources kept the door open for a potential return later in the series, which would boost the Lakers’ chances. Los Angeles and its fans can only hope that the 27-year-old can recover faster. The team can’t afford to be down big in the series as the Thunder are looking to end it quickly.