LeBron James and Austin Reaves Injury Updates: Lakers Stay Patient Amid Strong Start

Even while securing strong wins despite a growing list of injuries, the Los Angeles Lakers know the long-term priority is getting their core players back on the floor. LeBron James remains in Los Angeles for rehabilitation, while Austin Reaves continues to travel with the team but does not yet have a confirmed return date.

Before Saturday’s 122-102 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Reaves’ status. Initially listed with “groin discomfort,” the injury has since been reclassified as a mild groin strain, requiring additional rest and treatment.

Despite the Lakers’ strong 7-3 start, the team is choosing not to rush either player back.

“We’re playing well, which gives us the ability to be patient,” Redick said on Saturday. “The most important thing is having him healthy for the rest of the season.”

LeBron Stays in Los Angeles for Rehab

LeBron James has been recovering from sciatica irritation that has kept him out since opening week. The team is optimistic he will resume on-court training within the next 7–10 days, depending on how his body responds during rehab sessions.

The Lakers view LeBron’s ongoing absence not as a setback, but as a necessary precaution to avoid lingering pain later in the season.

Reaves Travels With Team, Showing Progress

Austin Reaves’ presence on the road trip has been considered a positive sign internally. According to team sources, he has been participating in shooting sessions, controlled agility work, and non-contact drills, but has not yet been cleared for full-speed scrimmage or contact work.

There is optimism within the organization that Reaves could return sometime during the current four-game road stretch, though the Lakers are unlikely to play him in back-to-back games when he does return.

Upcoming Schedule

The Lakers visit the Charlotte Hornets on Monday, followed by Oklahoma City on Wednesday. The trip concludes with a back-to-back against New Orleans and Milwaukee on Friday and Saturday.

Returning Reaves would provide a noticeable boost.

“He gives us a higher floor in every game,” one assistant coach said. “Getting Austin back is essential to maintaining the rhythm we’ve built early on.”