LeBron James is currently dealing with sciatica and has yet to suit up this season. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic has already missed four games due to finger and lower-body injuries. Adding to the Lakers’ woes, Austin Reaves is being ruled out for the third consecutive contest because of a right groin strain, according to NBA correspondent Marc Stein.
Despite these setbacks, the Los Angeles Lakers (7-2) are surging through adversity and climbing toward the top of the Western Conference standings. While it’s still early in the season for fans to get overly excited, there was a time when these key absences would have severely impacted the team’s performance.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick has done an excellent job laying down a solid foundation that his players can rely on when challenges arise. Even though a skilled scorer and impactful playmaker like Austin Reaves will be out of action against the Atlanta Hawks (4-4) on Saturday, there is reason to believe the Lakers can still thrive.
The Hawks have their own injury concerns, as All-Star point guard Trae Young is recovering from a sprained MCL. Redick can also depend on Doncic to step up on offense if necessary. However, a healthy Austin Reaves remains integral to the Lakers’ championship hopes.
Reaves, 27, is currently averaging 31.1 points on 48.9% shooting, along with 9.3 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. Beyond these impressive numbers, he has embraced his increased workload during LeBron James’ absence. If Reaves can maintain this outstanding form throughout the season, the undrafted native of Newark, Arkansas, is poised to sign a significant contract next summer—with a $14.8 million player option at the end of this season.
While Reaves is undoubtedly eager to return to the court, he will trust teammates like Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, Rui Hachimura, and the rest of the squad to secure a win in Atlanta.
Tip-off against the Hawks is scheduled for Saturday at approximately 8 p.m. ET.
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