Austin Reaves has missed his third consecutive game, leaving Lakers fans eager for news on when the prolific guard will return to the lineup. Fortunately, there is reason for optimism regarding his comeback.
On Saturday, Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Reaves’ condition. While he did not specify an exact return date, Redick hinted that Reaves could be back within the next week. “Given the fact that his pain is low, I would expect him to be back at some point on this trip,” Redick said, according to Lakers beat reporter Mike Trudell.
Redick was referring to the Lakers’ current five-game road trip, which includes upcoming matchups against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Milwaukee Bucks. With Gabe Vincent still sidelined due to an ankle sprain, the Lakers coaching staff is hopeful that Reaves’ return will bolster their backcourt depth.
This season, Reaves has appeared in seven games, averaging career highs across the board with 31.1 points per game, 5.1 rebounds, 9.3 assists, and 1.4 steals. Despite his absence, the Lakers have managed to maintain a strong performance, even putting together a five-game winning streak. However, having Reaves back would ease the burden on Luka Doncic and reduce the risk of injury by lessening the need for Doncic to carry the team alone.
With LeBron James still sidelined and unlikely to return soon, much of the responsibility to facilitate scoring opportunities falls on Doncic and Reaves. Their presence is critical to the Lakers’ success during this grueling stretch of five road games in eight days.
### Report: Austin Reaves Expected to Make Comeback Monday Night vs. Hornets
Further clarity about Reaves’ return came from Lakers insider Anthony F. Irwin. On Friday, Irwin shared that Reaves underwent an MRI on his groin, which showed no significant damage. “The Lakers are playing this situation safe and there’s optimism he’ll be good to play Monday in Charlotte,” Irwin tweeted.
If this report holds true, Reaves will have a few days to shake off any rust before the Lakers face the league-leading Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday. Lakers fans can look forward to seeing their standout guard back in action very soon.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-jj-redick-drops-crucial-update-austin-reaves-expected-lakers-return-amid-groin-injury-concerns