28Breakdown
Performance
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April 8, 2026
Hopeful to return soon
Head coach JJ Redick said that Smart (ankle) had a "great day on the court" Tuesday and that he's "trending" toward being able to return within the next three games, Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com reports.
Analysis
Smart will miss his eighth straight game Tuesday, but it sounds like he's hopeful to get back to the floor before the regular season ends Sunday. Thursday's game against the Warriors will be the first of a back-to-back set, so that one seems unlikely, but perhaps he'll be able to get back out there for Friday's match with the Suns.
April 6, 2026
Ruled out for Tuesday
Smart (ankle) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Thunder.
Analysis
Smart will miss an eighth consecutive contest due to a right ankle contusion. The veteran guard was recently cleared to participate in on-court work, and his next opportunity to return to game action will come Thursday against Golden State.
April 4, 2026
Out again Sunday
Smart (ankle) is listed as out for Sunday's game against Dallas.
Analysis
Smart has missed the Lakers' last six games. Although he appears to be trending in a positive direction regarding a return to the court, he won't be out there against the Mavericks. With Austin Reaves (oblique) and Luka Doncic (hamstring) out for the foreseeable future, Smart's services will likely be needed out of the backcourt upon his return. However, while he remains out, Jake LaRavia and Luke Kennard should both see even more work moving ahead.
April 3, 2026
Participates in on-court work
Head coach JJ Redick said Smart (ankle) participated in an on-court workout Thursday and could return to game action as soon as Sunday against the Mavericks, Dave McMenamin of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis
Smart will miss a sixth consecutive game Thursday due to a right ankle contusion, though he's trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's contest. For now, the veteran guard can be considered questionable to face Dallas.
April 1, 2026
Out again Thursday
Smart (ankle) won't play in Thursday's game against Oklahoma City, Ryan Ward of SI.com reports.
Analysis
This will mark Smart's sixth consecutive absence because of a right ankle contusion. As a result, Jake LaRavia is the favorite to remain in the starting lineup.