The Los Angeles Lakers have received clarity — if not relief — regarding Austin Reaves’ injury status.
On Friday, the team announced that Reaves is dealing with a mild left calf strain and will be re-evaluated in one week. Following Saturday’s practice, head coach JJ Redick expanded on the situation, offering reassurance while stressing caution.
🩺 Redick Explains How the Injury Developed
According to Redick, the injury wasn’t tied to a single moment or awkward play.
“For him, it’s hard to pinpoint an exact time during the game,” Redick said.
“It had started to tighten up the day before, even though he did very light work intentionally.”
That gradual onset is exactly why the Lakers are choosing the conservative route.
“It’s a mild strain, grade one. He’ll be out a week.”
⚠️ Why the Lakers Are Being Extra Careful
Calf injuries have become a red flag across the NBA, and Redick made it clear the team won’t take unnecessary risks.
“Players now are becoming more cautious when they get those diagnoses with the calf,” Redick explained.
“Everything looks clean. It’s not in the deep part… it should be a week.”
The priority is avoiding a setback — especially with Reaves playing such a central role in the Lakers’ offense.
🗓️ Favorable Timing for a Short Absence
If there’s a silver lining, it’s the schedule.
Reaves is expected to miss:
- Sunday vs. Phoenix Suns
- Thursday vs. Utah Jazz
A return could come as soon as Saturday, December 20, against the Los Angeles Clippers, depending on how his recovery progresses.
With a lighter slate ahead, the Lakers can afford patience.
🌟 Reaves’ Breakout Season Makes His Absence Noticeable
Before the injury, Reaves was enjoying the best season of his career, averaging:
- 27.8 points
- 6.7 assists
- 5.6 rebounds
- 1.0 steal
All while shooting:
- 50.3% from the field
- 36.9% from three
- 87.5% from the free-throw line
He was flirting with the 50/40/90 club and firmly established as the Lakers’ No. 2 scoring option.
📉 A Brief Dip Before the Diagnosis
Interestingly, Reaves’ last two games showed signs something wasn’t right.
He scored 26 total points across those contests while shooting just 28.1% from the field. In the NBA Cup loss to the San Antonio Spurs, he finished with 15 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, but efficiency lagged as the Lakers fell 132–119.
In hindsight, the calf issue may explain the sudden drop.
🔄 How the Lakers Will Adjust Without Reaves
Redick acknowledged just how important Reaves is to making the offense function.
“Very. He kind of makes a lot of things work for us. For the next week, we’ll play different lineups.”
Expect increased minutes for:
- Marcus Smart
- Gabe Vincent
- Jake LaRavia
While Bronny James and Nick Smith could also see expanded opportunities.
🛑 Defense Remains a Point of Emphasis
Reaves’ absence comes at a time when the Lakers are already searching for defensive consistency.
Against San Antonio, Los Angeles allowed 35 transition points — the most they’ve given up all season. Redick confirmed the team addressed those breakdowns in a film session on Friday.
🎯 Short-Term Test for a Contender
Sitting at 17–7 and fourth in the Western Conference, the Lakers will attempt to steady themselves without one of their most important players.
The next week will test their depth, adaptability, and defensive focus — but the long-term goal is clear:
Get Austin Reaves back healthy, not rushed.
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