The Lakers took a tough hit on Thursday night against the Chicago Bulls. That was their fourth loss in just five games. They’re clinging to that No. 4 seed in the Western Conference—though they’re actually tied with the Memphis Grizzlies right now. That means every game from here on out is a must-win for playoff positioning.
As the Lakers get ready to face off against the Grizzlies this Saturday, they’ve got another challenge to navigate: an injury report on key player Austin Reaves. Here’s what we know so far about that situation.
Austin Reaves’ Injury Raises Red Flags
Reaves, who has been one of the Lakers’ best players this season, is on the injury report with an ankle issue after the loss to the Bulls. The 26 year old guard has been incredibly durable this season missing only 8 games so far, but this could be a problem for the Lakers as they head into the playoffs.
The team has listed Reaves as “questionable” for Saturday, so his status will be determined closer to tip off. For a team that can’t find any consistency, losing Reaves even for a game would be a big deal.
Why Reaves Is So Important to the Lakers?
Austin Reaves is in his fourth NBA season-and already he’s become the kind of player the Lakers can’t afford to lose. That was especially clear in Saturday’s high-stakes game against Memphis. He’s the one who can contribute in so many ways- and make-or-break a game with his presence. Or absence.
This season, Reaves is putting up 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game – numbers that show just how much he’s grown as both a scorer and playmaker. But what really sets him apart is the way he can affect a game on both ends of the court. He can create shots off the dribble, knock down three-pointers, and defend all sorts of positions. That kind of versatility-and the energy that comes with it-is what makes him so indispensable to the Lakers.
A Pivotal Game Against the Grizzlies
Saturday’s game against the Grizzlies is where the real positioning in the Western Conference standings begins to take shape. The Lakers and Grizzlies are tied for that No. 4 seed-and that tiebreaker is exactly what’s on the line. A win for either team would give them a little breathing room heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
For the Lakers, this is their chance to get that momentum back on track after a rough patch. But with Reaves’ status up in the air, the pressure really does fall on LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the rest of the roster to pick up the slack if their starting guard is out. That’s a lot to ask.
Health Takes Priority Over Wins
While winning is important, being healthy is probably the Lakers’ number one priority right now. With only a couple of weeks left before the playoffs, any extended absence from Reaves could kill their playoff hopes.
If Reaves can’t play against the Grizzlies or, worse, has to miss an extended period, then coach J.J. will have to adjust the rotations and rely more on role players. That’s not ideal for a team that’s already struggling with inconsistency.
But the Lakers have to weigh the risks and rewards. Rushing Reaves back too soon could lead to further injury, which would be way worse than losing one game. Fingers crossed if Reaves sits out against Memphis he’ll be back soon and 100%.
