Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves avoided a serious injury after an MRI on his right calf revealed no major issues, according to NBA insider Shams Charania.
Charania reported that Reaves is considered day-to-day, and his status for Sunday’s game against the Clippers remains uncertain. The update is a relief for the Lakers, who saw Reaves exit early in Friday’s 106-102 win over the Clippers.
Head coach JJ Redick confirmed that the 26-year-old was sidelined due to calf tightness and was held out as a precaution. Redick also noted that Jordan Goodwin rolled his ankle late in the game but added that neither injury is expected to be serious.
Reaves has been a crucial part of the Lakers’ recent surge, averaging 19.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season. His playmaking and scoring have helped Los Angeles secure five straight wins and victories in 11 of their last 13 games.
Redick also provided an update on Rui Hachimura, revealing that the forward is dealing with patellar tendinopathy in his left knee. Hachimura, who missed Friday’s game, has been averaging 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per contest.
Despite Reaves’ absence, the Lakers leaned on Luka Doncic, who scored 31 points on his 26th birthday, and LeBron James, who added 28 points and 13 rebounds. Doncic’s clutch shooting in the fourth quarter, including back-to-back three-pointers, sealed the win.
Ivica Zubac led the Clippers with a season-high 27 points and 16 rebounds, but the team struggled offensively. James Harden shot just 5-of-22 from the field, including 1-of-10 from three-point range, as the Clippers dropped their fourth game in five outings.
The Lakers’ defense played a pivotal role in the victory, forcing 18 turnovers and limiting the Clippers to 24.3% shooting from beyond the arc. Despite missing key players, Los Angeles outrebounded the Clippers 39-35 and made crucial stops down the stretch.
