The Los Angeles Lakers really haven't had a good time with injuries this season. That trend continues as now Josh Hart has been officially ruled out for Friday's game against the Brooklyn Nets:

It's safe to say this season hasn't gone according to plan for the Los Angeles Lakers. Not only have injuries been an issue all year, but they won't be making the playoffs in the first year of the LeBron James era. With a current mark of 31-40, they need to win out just to finish with a winning record this season.

Josh Hart has been dealing with knee problems for a while, though he has been gutting through it. Unfortunately, he won't be suiting up against Nets star D'Angelo Russell, the former Laker. The Lakers could've really used Hart's defensive prowess against Russell, but there's no reason to push things with his balky knee.

Hart is an important piece of the Lakers' future, whether it's on the court with the franchise or as a trade piece for star talent. The 24-year-old is a stellar 3-and-D player who often brings a jolt of energy, either in the starting lineup or off the bench.

Los Angeles is looking to stave off playoff elimination on Friday night.