Austin Reaves injury update, JJ Redick: “It doesn’t seem serious”
No MRI for Austin Reaves. The Lakers will evaluate him day to day, and Redick is optimistic
The Los Angeles Lakers can breathe a sigh of relief. After an injury scare in their win over the Milwaukee Bucks, there’s encouraging news about Austin Reaves, who had to leave the game with a left heel injury.
Tests ruled out any major complications, and Reaves won’t need an MRI. He suffered a heel contusion and will be evaluated day to day.
That’s welcome news for the Lakers, who had feared a much worse outcome after seeing Reaves leave the floor and unable to return.
Redick offers reassurance on Reaves: “It’s a minor injury”
The injury occurred in the third quarter of the 123-112 win over Milwaukee. Reaves went up for a dunk in transition, but the defense disrupted the attempt. He missed and landed awkwardly on his left foot.
The pain forced him out of the game, and he didn’t return.
X-rays taken immediately after the injury came back negative. Once the team returned to Los Angeles, the medical staff monitored Reaves and determined that no further testing was needed.
JJ Redick confirmed the decision when he spoke with reporters after Friday’s practice. Asked whether the lack of an MRI meant the injury was minor, he said:
I’d say a day-to-day injury can be considered minor, yes
JJ Redick
The Lakers haven’t announced a specific return date, but the injury appears far less concerning than it did initially.
Luka Doncic injury: the latest update
The Milwaukee game also raised concerns about Luka Doncic, who sprained his right ankle late in the game.
Redick was even more reassuring in Doncic’s case.
He’s fine. I expect him to be available
JJ Redick
It’ll take a few more days to get a clearer sense of Reaves’ recovery timeline, while Doncic is expected to be available against Phoenix. Overall, it’s encouraging news for Redick and a Lakers team playing with plenty of confidence.