LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled in Austin Reaves’ absence, posting a 9-8 record while he recovers from a calf strain. Without Reaves, the team has had difficulty winning against the NBA’s top teams.
Reaves, who is averaging 26.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, is expected to strengthen the Lakers’ offense and ease the scoring burden on Luka Dončić, the league’s leading scorer.
“He gives us three decision-makers on the court that have great talent,” Luka Dončić said after the Lakers’ win over the Chicago Bulls. “We can’t wait to have him back. He’s been working out. I saw him. I think he wants to be back, too. We’re excited for him to be back.”
Lakers head coach JJ Redick said Reaves is “progressing well” and could return during the team’s current road trip. He has been upgraded to questionable for the upcoming game in Washington.
Reaves’ return would give the Lakers another playmaker and ballhandler, allowing more minutes for the team’s top trio: Reaves, Dončić, and LeBron James. So far this season, the three have shared the court for only eight games, totaling 140 minutes.
Rui Hachimura also expressed excitement for Reaves’ return. “For us, the whole team is going to be healthy, right? Of course, it’s going to be a different rotation again, a different rhythm again, but I think we’re going to be okay,” Hachimura said after the Chicago game. “Especially with how we’re playing right now, it’ll be perfect for him to come back.”
While the Lakers have managed to survive without Reaves, his return is expected to be key for maximizing their playoff prospects. The team looks forward to seeing him continue his career-best season as the stretch run approaches.