For the second consecutive game, the Lakers are listing Austin Reaves as questionable, setting up for his potential return from injury.
Prior to Friday’s game, head coach JJ Redick stated that there was no setback and that the team was just being extra cautious.
Considering Reaves suffered a pretty immediate reaggravation of his injury upon his last return from a calf strain, showcasing some more restraint and caution in this return.
However, it does feel like a bit of a tease to be this close to an Austin return and have it keep being delayed. At the start of the current road trip, Redick said the goal was to have Reaves back before they returned to Crypto.com Arena.
The Lakers have two games left on this trip, both in New York. They will face the Knicks on Sunday before finishing up the trip in Brooklyn. Having Reaves available on Sunday would be a big boost against one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
Tuesday’s contest against the Nets would serve as a great warm-up regardless of whether he returns against the Knicks or not.
It might be frustrating to keep having to wait for Reaves to finally be back, especially with everyone — Luka included — excited for him to return. But the Lakers are playing the long game with Reaves.