Los Angeles Lakers Insider: Breaking News, Player Interviews & Highlights

Tag: Luka Dončić injury

  • Lakers Make Bold Move with Austin Reaves Ahead of Pelicans Showdown

    Lakers Make Bold Move with Austin Reaves Ahead of Pelicans Showdown

    The Los Angeles Lakers have won six in a row and 16 of their last 19. A big part of that is Austin Reaves, who has been on another level since the Luka Doncic trade. But now Reaves’ calf strain has him questionable for Tuesday’s game against Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans.

    Reaves’ Play Since Luka Doncic’s Trade

    Since being paired with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves has been a stud for the Lakers. In five of his first seven games with Doncic, Reaves scored 15+ points. He’s averaging career highs of 19.1 points and 6.0 assists per game overall and is one of LA’s most reliable players.

    But Reaves’ momentum hit a snag in the Lakers’ 106-102 win over the Clippers. He suffered a calf strain in the first quarter and only played nine minutes, scoring eight points. He missed the rematch on Sunday, his sixth game of the 2024-25 season.

    Injury Report Before Pelicans Game

    The Lakers released their injury report for Tuesday’s game against the Pelicans on Monday. Reaves is questionable as he continues to recover from his calf strain. His status will be updated closer to tip-off but his absence would definitely be a huge blow to the rotation.

    Other Injuries to Watch

    • Luka Doncic: Also questionable after a knee contusion Sunday. He briefly left the game to go to the locker room but returned. His status is a big deal for the Lakers moving forward.
    • LeBron James: Probable with his left foot management. LeBron has been playing through discomfort and he’s probable so he’ll play against the Pelicans.

    Why Reaves’ Availability Matters

    Reaves has been a key part of the Lakers’ winning streak. His scoring, playmaking and defense have been a big factor in the team’s success. Without him the Lakers might struggle to maintain the rhythm especially against the Pelicans and Zion Williamson.

    If Reaves can’t play the Lakers will probably rely more on LeBron, Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell to carry the load. Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura might see more minutes to fill the void.

    Upcoming Schedule: Tough Road Ahead for the Lakers

    After Tuesday’s game against the Pelicans the Lakers have a tough stretch:

    • Thursday: Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks at home.
    • Saturday: Road game against the defending champion Boston Celtics.

    These games will test the Lakers’ depth and resilience especially if Reaves and Doncic are limited or out.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Reaves and the Lakers

    Is Austin Reaves playing against the Pelicans?

    Reaves is questionable with his calf strain. His status will be updated closer to game time but be prepared for him to sit out.

    How big is Reaves to the Lakers?

    Reaves has been a key player this season averaging 19.1 points and 6.0 assists per game – both career highs. His scoring and playmaking have been big for the Lakers’ winning streak.

    What happened to Reaves in the Clippers game?

    Reaves suffered a calf strain in the first half of the Lakers’ 106-102 win over the Clippers. He played only 9 minutes and didn’t return to the game.

    Who else is hurt for the Lakers?

    Luka Doncic is also questionable with a knee contusion, LeBron James is probable with his left foot injury. Their status will be updated closer to game time.

    Can the Lakers win without Reaves?

    While the Lakers have depth, losing Reaves hurts their offense and versatility. They’ll need big games from LeBron, Davis and others to make up for his absence.

  • Is LeBron James Ready to Face the Pelicans? Lakers Fans Eager for Answers

    Is LeBron James Ready to Face the Pelicans? Lakers Fans Eager for Answers

    The Los Angeles Lakers are getting ready for a big game against the New Orleans Pelicans but all eyes are on LeBron James and his injury status. The 21-time All-Star has been dealing with a left foot injury for most of the season and is listed as probable for Tuesday’s game. But his availability is the big question as the Lakers look to get a win.

    LeBron James: Probable but Managing a Left Foot Injury

    According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, LeBron James is probable to play against the Pelicans despite the left foot injury. The injury has been a nagging issue all season but LeBron has played through it all year. He’s a true marvel at his age.

    Why It Matters?

    LeBron is essential for the Lakers, especially against a banged up Pelicans team. New Orleans may not be at full strength but every win counts in the Western Conference standings. If LeBron sits out it could be a big blow to the Lakers chances to get a win.

    Other Lakers to Watch

    Luka Doncic: Questionable with Right Knee Contusion

    Five time All-NBA First Team guard Luka Doncic is questionable for Tuesday’s game with a right knee contusion. Doncic has been the Lakers since the trade last month and his absence would be huge.

    Austin Reaves: Struggling with Right Calf Strain

    Austin Reaves, one of the Lakers most improved players this season, is also questionable with a right calf strain. Reaves has been dealing with a calf strain and will be limited if he plays. His two way play has been huge especially on the offensive end.

    Jordan Goodwin: Out with Right Ankle Sprain

    Defensive specialist Jordan Goodwin is out with a right ankle sprain. His size and tenacity on defense was a key rotational piece especially when Gabe Vincent went into JJ Redick’s rotations. Without Goodwin the Lakers lose some defensive versatility.

    Rui Hachimura: Dealing with Left Patellar Tendinopathy

    Starting forward Rui Hachimura is out with left patellar tendinopathy. Hachimura had recently been playing small ball center in Redick’s system so his absence is even bigger.

    Maxi Kleber: Still Recovering from Surgery

    New power forward/center Maxi Kleber is out as he continues to recover from January surgery on his right foot. As the second best player in the Lakers mega-trade for Doncic Kleber’s return will be huge for the frontcourt depth.