The regular season is winding down, and with it comes one last question before the playoffs begin: Who’s suiting up—and who’s sitting out? The Los Angeles Lakers have already clinched the third seed, but that doesn’t mean today’s game against the Trail Blazers doesn’t matter. On the surface, it’s just a season finale. But dig a little deeper, and it reveals a calculated strategy heading into the postseason.
The stakes may not lie in the standings, but they do exist—in the form of player health, momentum, and long-term survival in a grueling postseason. And yes, that includes LeBron James.
The veteran star, who continues to defy age in his 21st season, is clearly preserving fuel for what matters most—playoff basketball. Though listed with a groin injury, this appears more tactical than urgent. When asked more directly, Redick simply added, “Yeah, yeah. He’s fine,” indicating confidence in James’ health heading into the postseason.
Luka Doncic is also ruled out for rest, echoing the team’s postseason-first mindset. “Big time, big time, but I gotta get some rest obviously,” Luka said recently about the road ahead. “The good part of the season is coming, so I gotta stay ready.
Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Dorian Finney-Smith are also out due to rest, while Maxi Kleber (foot) remains sidelined. There is optimism surrounding Jarred Vanderbilt, who has been upgraded to questionable after months away. Jordan Goodwin is probable, while Jaxson Hayes and Gabe Vincent are still uncertain.
The Lakers’ decision to rest nearly their entire starting core today is all about preservation. With the third seed already clinched, there’s no strategic upside in risking injury. But this approach does raise one key concern: Rhythm.
LeBron and Luka haven’t had much court time together recently, and heading into a postseason where chemistry is everything, that matters. The absence of Reaves and Hachimura removes two key role players who often provide balance when the stars sit. Are the Lakers giving up too much continuity in the name of recovery
Then again, rest may be the only logical path. The season has been long. Luka is carrying significant usage minutes, and LeBron has already spoken about managing his body through the grind. With both likely to log heavy minutes in the playoffs, today’s decision isn’t just smart—it’s necessary.
This game also provides a rare platform for players like Jordan Goodwin and possibly Jarred Vanderbilt (if cleared) to get valuable reps. “There are two things: it’s building the playoff mentality but it’s also building the playoff preparation.” Redick said earlier in April.
From Portland’s side, this is more survival than strategy. The Blazers aren’t just short-handed—they’re severely depleted. Deandre Ayton is out with a calf strain, Robert Williams III remains sidelined with a knee injury, and Jerami Grant continues to battle a lingering knee issue. Scoot Henderson is out with a concussion, and Anfernee Simons won’t play due to a forearm contusion. Shaedon Sharpe (knee) and Deni Avdija (thumb) are questionable. The Blazers are essentially fielding a skeleton crew.
Today’s game may not shape the playoff bracket, but it could shape how these teams enter it. For the Lakers, it’s about calculated risks, fresh legs, and veteran foresight. For the Blazers, it’s about staying afloat and looking to the future.
Don’t expect fireworks. But do expect a quiet test of depth, durability, and direction.
