### Lakers Face Major Setback with Luka Doncic's Injury Ahead of Trail Blazers Game The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a challenging matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers on January 17, 2026, but they will be without key players, including star guard Luka Doncic. Doncic has been ruled out due to left groin soreness, a significant blow for the team as they navigate a back-to-back schedule. Additionally, centers Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes are also questionable for the game, further complicating the Lakers' lineup as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the NBA season. The absence of Doncic, who is currently the league's leading scorer, raises concerns about the team's offensive capabilities against the Trail Blazers [https://abc7.com/post/lakers-luka-doncic-blazers-due-groin-soreness/18418414][https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2026-01-16/lakers-star-luka-doncic-to-miss-saturdays-game-at-portland]. ### Breakdown of the Lakers' Injury Situation 1. **Luka Doncic's Injury**: - Doncic is sidelined due to left groin soreness, which was confirmed by the team on January 16, 2026 [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-release-injury-report-saturdays-030951388.html][https://www.sportsnet.ca/nba/article/lakers-luka-doncic-out-saturday-vs-trail-blazers]. 2. **Additional Player Concerns**: - Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes are listed as questionable due to knee and hamstring issues, respectively [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/lakers_injury_report_luka_doncic_out_deandre_ayton_jaxson_hayes_questionable_vs_trail_blazers/s1_17074_43342840]. - Austin Reaves and Adou Thiero are confirmed out for the game, adding to the Lakers' injury woes [https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/lakers-injury-report/105469/lakers-injury-report-luka-doncic-deandre-ayton-jaxson-hayes-out-questionable-left-groin-knee-soreness-hamstring-status-blazers]. 3. **Impact on Team Performance**: - The Lakers will need to adjust their strategy significantly without Doncic, who has been pivotal in their scoring and playmaking [https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1920222/luka-doncic-out-los-angeles-lakers-at-portland-trail-blazers]. ### Supporting Evidence of Injury Impact - **Luka Doncic's Performance**: As the NBA's leading scorer, Doncic's absence is expected to heavily impact the Lakers' offensive output. His scoring average and playmaking abilities are crucial for the team's success [https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2026-01-16/lakers-star-luka-doncic-to-miss-saturdays-game-at-portland]. - **Team Depth**: The Lakers' depth will be tested, especially with multiple players listed as questionable or out. This could lead to increased minutes for bench players, which may not be ideal against a competitive team like the Trail Blazers [https://www.silverscreenandroll.com/lakers-injury-report/105469/lakers-injury-report-luka-doncic-deandre-ayton-jaxson-hayes-out-questionable-left-groin-knee-soreness-hamstring-status-blazers]. ### Conclusion: Lakers' Challenges Ahead In summary, the Los Angeles Lakers are facing a significant challenge as they prepare for their game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The absence of Luka Doncic due to left groin soreness, along with the questionable status of Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes, puts the team in a precarious position. 1. **Luka Doncic's Injury**: His absence is a major setback for the Lakers [https://abc7.com/post/lakers-luka-doncic-blazers-due-groin-soreness/18418414]. 2. **Additional Injuries**: The questionable status of other key players further complicates the situation [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/lakers_injury_report_luka_doncic_out_deandre_ayton_jaxson_hayes_questionable_vs_trail_blazers/s1_17074_43342840]. 3. **Strategic Adjustments Needed**: The Lakers will need to adapt their game plan to cope with these injuries if they hope to secure a win against the Trail Blazers [https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1920222/luka-doncic-out-los-angeles-lakers-at-portland-trail-blazers]. The upcoming game will be a test of the Lakers' resilience and depth as they navigate through this challenging period.