Pau Gasol hopes to play in Game 6 after missing his second straight game on Tuesday.

“(Game 5) is critical, but I can’t run,” Gasol said. “If I’m able to run and play at a certain percentage above 50 percent, I’ll try to give (Game 6) a go. Unfortunately, hamstrings are tricky and not like other areas. … Try to do the right thing for our team and for our chances.”

Gasol said previous hamstring injuries sidelined him for a month and 2-1/2 weeks but this one isn't as severe.

"It's very hard for me not to play at this time when we need everyone on the floor," Gasol said. "I feel it's improving. (Tuesday) was a good day."