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Austin Reaves Injury Update
Austin Reaves is out with a mild strain in his left calf and the Lakers say he will miss at least one week. The team will check the injury again after that before clearing any return.
The strain showed up after a heavy stretch of games where Reaves played big minutes on both ends of the floor. Reporters noted that he was hobbling during the loss to the Spurs even though there was no single clear play where he went down. After testing and evaluation on Friday the team confirmed the calf issue and moved him to the injury list.
Right now the Lakers expect him to miss at least the next two road games in Phoenix and Utah over the coming week. If things go well he could be back in time for the matchup with the Clippers next weekend but that depends on how the calf responds. Calf strains can be tricky so the staff is being careful to avoid a longer setback.
The good news is that the team keeps calling it a mild strain which usually points to a shorter timeline. The plan is simple rest treatment then a new check in about seven days. If the pain is down and the strength is back Reaves can start ramping up on court work again. If there is any lingering tightness they will likely extend the rest window instead of rushing him back.
This comes during the best season of his career so far. Over the first 21 games Reaves is averaging around 28 points with about six rebounds and nearly seven assists with strong shooting from the field and from three. He has played more total minutes than any other Laker while helping the team stay near the top of the West even when LeBron James or Luka Doncic sit.
His absence hits both the scoring and the playmaking for the starting group. Other guards and wings will need to soak up his minutes especially in pick and roll and late clock situations where he usually controls the ball. Coaches have spoken about his rhythm this year and how comfortable he looks reading matchups so replacing that will not be easy.
For fans the key date is the re evaluation in about a week. Until that update he should be viewed as out day to day with a realistic chance to return if the calf responds to rest.
Disclaimer:
The information regarding Austin Reaves' injury is based on the latest updates from the Lakers. His status is subject to change following further evaluation in approximately one week.
