Patryk Stachowiak
Reaves Sidelined with Left Calf Injury
The Los Angeles Lakers will monitor Austin Reaves closely after he suffered a left calf injury. The team announced he will be reassessed in a week, leaving his short-term availability uncertain.
The injury is described as mild, though calf issues in the NBA often result in absences of two to four weeks. Reaves, 27, was having a career-best season before the setback, averaging 27.8 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game.
Recent Performance Dip
In his last two games, Reaves averaged just 13 points while shooting 28.1% from the field—a noticeable drop from his usual production. JJ Redick, speaking before the Lakers’ NBA Cup quarterfinal loss to San Antonio, cited the team’s grueling schedule as a factor:
Our performance team highlighted how demanding the back-to-back games against Toronto and Boston, followed by Philadelphia, have been. The intensity and workload were really high.
Lakers Face Tough Road Stretch
The Lakers will play three consecutive away games this week: Phoenix, Utah, and the Clippers at Intuit Dome. Reaves’ absence could impact rotations, but the team must address broader issues. Los Angeles has lost three of its last five games, with defensive struggles being a key concern.
No one thinks we are a good defensive team right now. At the same time, no one believes we can’t become one. We need to grow, and fast.
Reaves’ reassessment will play a crucial role in determining the Lakers’ next steps.
Read also: Lakers Get Bad News on Trade Assets to Upgrade Roster: Less Valuable