The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a must-win situation Monday night as they host the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals. Trailing 0-3 in the series after a tough home loss in Game 3, the Lakers are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive and force a Game 5 back in Oklahoma City.

However, the team will once again be without superstar guard Luka Doncic, who headlines the Lakers' injury report for the crucial matchup. Doncic has been ruled out due to a left hamstring strain that has kept him sidelined throughout the entire playoffs, with no clear timetable for his return. His absence is a significant blow for a Lakers team already facing elimination.

With Doncic unavailable, the Lakers will look to LeBron James and Austin Reaves to carry the offensive load, as they have throughout the series. Role players like Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, and Luke Kennard are expected to see increased minutes and opportunities to step up in this high-pressure game.

For basketball fans, Game 4 promises to be a thrilling showdown as the Lakers aim to avoid a sweep and extend their season. The action tips off at 10:30 p.m. ET on Monday night at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, with coverage available on Amazon Prime Video.