Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic reports:
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Robin Lopez has two milestones coming in his expected return to the starting lineup Monday.
He will play a game for the first time since March 26 and will be making his career playoff debut.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet,” Lopez said. “I think it’ll hit me on the floor. I feel like I’ve been out there with the guys when I’ve been watching them the previous series.”
Lopez said his conditioning and right-leg strength, an issue because of his bulging disk pinching a nerve, have improved and he feels his instincts returning. The 7-footer is a welcome addition against the Lakers’ frontline size.
“I’m going to have to crash the boards and deter easy layups,” Lopez said.
