Lakers Expect Austin Reaves Back During Ongoing Eight-Game Trip
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Los Angeles, CA — Head coach JJ Redick said Tuesday that guard Austin Reaves is on track to rejoin the Los Angeles Lakers at some point during the club’s current eight-game road swing.
“He’s progressing well; he’ll play at some point on this trip,” Redick told reporters before the matchup with the Utah Jazz.
Reaves, 27, has been sidelined since aggravating a left calf strain earlier in the 2025-26 season. The injury initially carried a six-week recovery timeline, and team officials have emphasized caution amid increased leaguewide concern over calf issues.
Before the setback, the third-year guard was posting career-best numbers for a roster headlined by Luka Doncic and LeBron James. His scoring and playmaking have been widely cited by the Lakers as essential to balancing the offense.
Throughout his absence, Reaves remained active around the team, drawing praise from Redick for his engagement on the bench.
The Lakers began the eight-game trip without him, facing a demanding stretch leading into the All-Star break. Reaves’ anticipated return is expected to bolster a lineup that has struggled to find consistent three-level scoring beyond its two stars.
Looking ahead, multiple clubs are expected to pursue Reaves in free agency, with the Utah Jazz among the teams reportedly considering a potential max offer. Reaves has publicly stated a preference to stay in Los Angeles, though his future could hinge on offseason negotiations.
Source: LakersNation.com
