🚨 Lakers in Trouble? Multiple Key Players Ruled Out Ahead of Crucial Pacers Clash

The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a growing crisis at the worst possible time—and it could seriously impact their momentum.

Ahead of their matchup against the Indiana Pacers, the team has been hit with a wave of injuries, leaving several important rotation players sidelined and raising concerns among fans.

Injury List Keeps Growing

The biggest blow comes with starting center Deandre Ayton, who was ruled out due to back soreness.

But he’s not alone.

The Lakers were also without:

Rui Hachimura (calf soreness)

Marcus Smart (ankle injury)

Adou Thiero (knee soreness)

That’s a significant portion of the team’s rotation missing in a single game—something no team wants to deal with deep into the season.

A Tough Stretch Gets Tougher

Both Hachimura and Smart had already missed the Lakers’ previous game, a disappointing loss to the Detroit Pistons.

Now, with even more players unavailable, the challenge only intensifies as the Lakers wrap up their road trip.

Coach Urges Caution

Head coach JJ Redick made it clear the team is prioritizing player health over short-term risks.

Speaking about Thiero’s situation, Redick explained that travel and quick turnarounds may have contributed to discomfort, and the team is choosing to be cautious rather than push players too soon.