Los Angeles, California – Lakers guard Austin Reaves left Friday night’s game against the LA Clippers in the first quarter due to right calf soreness. He did not return to the court and is scheduled to undergo an MRI on his calf on Saturday, as reported by sources familiar with the situation.
The fourth-year veteran, who had been playing some of the best basketball in his career, was subbed out with just under three minutes left in the first quarter. Lakers coach JJ Redick stated that Reaves was experiencing tightness and soreness in his calf, prompting him to be held out as a precaution. Reaves had been averaging 23.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in 11 games during February.
The Lakers were already missing one starter, Rui Hachimura, who was sidelined due to a left knee strain sustained in the previous game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coach Redick mentioned that Hachimura underwent an MRI on Friday, but did not provide a timeline for his return to the lineup. Dorian Finney-Smith started in Hachimura’s place against the Clippers.
Despite the injuries, the Lakers managed to secure a 106-102 victory over the Clippers, with stellar performances from Luka Doncic and LeBron James. The team’s bench outscored the Clippers’ reserves 29-14. With the win, the Lakers have now won 15 of their last 18 games and are currently sitting at the fourth spot in the Western Conference standings.
LeBron James emphasized that while the team is in a good position, they are not becoming complacent. He acknowledged that they have not played their best basketball yet and highlighted the importance of addressing injuries to maintain their momentum in the league. Overall, the Lakers remain focused on improving and pushing forward as the season progresses.