Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Austin Reaves after the team’s 106-102 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night. Reaves, who left the game early with calf tightness, was held out as a precaution, according to Redick.
“He was experiencing some tightness in the calf, some soreness, and was held out as a precaution,” Redick said. The Lakers’ coach also mentioned that Jordan Goodwin rolled his ankle late in the game but added that neither injury appears to be serious.
Reaves, 26, is having a career-best season, averaging 19.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. His absence was felt, but the Lakers’ depth stepped up to secure their fifth straight win and 11th in their last 13 games.
Redick also addressed Rui Hachimura’s status, revealing that the forward is dealing with patellar tendinopathy in his left knee. Hachimura, who averages 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds, missed the game as the Lakers continue to monitor his condition.
Despite the injuries, the Lakers rallied behind Luka Doncic’s 31-point performance on his 26th birthday and LeBron James’ 28 points and 13 rebounds. Doncic was clutch in the fourth quarter, hitting back-to-back three-pointers to extend the Lakers’ lead and seal the win.
The Clippers, led by Ivica Zubac’s season-high 27 points and 16 rebounds, couldn’t overcome their offensive struggles. James Harden shot just 5-of-22 from the field, including 1-of-10 from three, as the Clippers lost their fourth game in five outings.
The Lakers’ defense was a key factor, forcing 18 turnovers and holding the Clippers to 24.3% shooting from beyond the arc. Despite being undersized, Los Angeles outrebounded the Clippers 39-35 and made timely stops down the stretch.
With Reaves’ injury not deemed serious, the Lakers can breathe a sigh of relief as they continue their playoff push. Goodwin’s ankle issue also appears minor, giving the team hope for a quick return to full strength.
