The Los Angeles Lakers look to bounce back from Sunday’s loss against the New York Knicks when they take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center tonight. It’s the final game of an eight-game road trip for LA, and the Lakers are hoping to go 5-3 heading into their final road test. Los Angeles enters Tuesday with a 29-19 record, sitting sixth in the Western Conference, a strong position despite significant injury setbacks, none more notable than the absence of Austin Reaves.
Reaves has missed 19 straight games due to a Grade 2 strained left calf. He suffered the injury on Christmas Day against the San Antonio Spurs and has been sidelined since, leading to a cautious recovery timeline.
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Head coach JJ Redick confirmed he was a game-time decision before ultimately being ruled out for the Knicks game. The Lakers have taken extra care to ensure he doesn’t re-aggravate the injury.
Reaves was initially listed as questionable on Monday’s injury report. On Tuesday, he was seen running on the court and participating in shooting drills during the Lakers’ pregame routine, a strong sign of his possible return to action (via Lakers reporter Jovan Buha).
Shortly after, head coach JJ Redick announced that Reaves has been cleared to play against the Nets, marking his first game in over a month. Redick also confirmed that Reaves will be on a minutes restriction and will come off the bench.
His return marks a huge boost for Los Angeles. Reaves has been one of the Lakers’ most efficient and productive players this season, averaging 26.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game while shooting 50.7% from the field and 36.5% from three. Many analysts projected him on track for his first All-Star selection before the injury.
Reaves’ return also brings back a key piece of LA’s backcourt alongside Luka Doncic, and his presence is expected to improve spacing, playmaking and scoring versatility. Earlier this season, Reaves scored a career-high 51 points against the Sacramento Kings with LeBron James and Doncic absent.
The Lakers will lean on Reaves’ return as they seek a win Tuesday night. Tip-off vs. the Nets is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.