The Los Angeles Lakers are having the kind of NBA season start they hoped for, holding a 7-3 record despite dealing with injuries to their stars since opening night. While LeBron James has yet to play, the team has shown commitment and depth — particularly through Austin Reaves, who stepped up when their top names were unavailable.
Of course, LeBron James has been sidelined and hasn’t played this season, but even Luka Doncic has missed some time. Austin Reaves became the latest key player for the Lakers to face an injury setback, missing the past three games as he recovers from a groin issue.
The Lakers have described Reaves’ injury as a minor groin strain. Head coach JJ Redick recently provided an update, according to team reporter Mike Trudell. “Given the fact that his pain is low, I would expect him to be back at some point on this trip,” Redick said via Trudell.
Recently, the Lakers’ injury report listed Reaves as questionable for Monday’s matchup against the Charlotte Hornets — a promising sign that his return could happen soon.
Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Reaves has been a crucial piece for the Lakers, especially in LeBron’s absence. He’s consistently carried the load when needed, showing poise and leadership under pressure. The Lakers will surely need him back as they continue their challenging early stretch of the season.
The evolution of Austin Reaves
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Before his injury, Reaves was in the middle of a strong scoring run that kept the Lakers competitive while Doncic was out. That stretch included a game-winner against the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he finished with 28 points and 16 assists. He and Doncic have been vital to the Lakers’ early success, and there’s optimism that their chemistry will continue once LeBron returns.
Reaves also delivered an NBA season-high performance against the Sacramento Kings, recording a career-best 51 points in a 127-120 win without LeBron James and Luka Doncic. He added 11 rebounds and nine assists, shooting 12-of-22 from the field and hitting six three-pointers in that breakout game.
Reaves’ absence highlights his impact
Without Reaves in their last matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, the Lakers couldn’t get the job done, suffering one of their toughest losses so far. Redick acknowledged his disappointment afterward, admitting that the group lacked the same energy and execution seen in previous games.
“They brought the requisite level of effort and urgency and physicality,” Redick said postgame. The Lakers still have four games left on this road trip, facing strong opposition such as the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Milwaukee Bucks — matchups that will test their resilience until their stars are fully back.
