Reaves update spurs Lakers vs. Hornets

Editorial Team
Lakers get encouraging Austin Reaves update vs. Hornets image

Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) walks on to the court before the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers during the first quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers received some encouraging news regarding Austin Reaves ahead of tonight’s matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, as the star guard was an active participant in the team’s morning shootaround and has been upgraded to available. 

 

Reaves has missed the last three games for Los Angeles while dealing with a lingering groin injury that sidelined him longer than initially expected. Before the setback, Reaves had been enjoying a career-best start to the season, averaging 31.1 points, 9.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game — all personal highs. His ability to create offense both on and off the ball has been crucial for a Lakers team navigating through early-season adversity.

His individual success has also mirrored the team’s collective rhythm, as the Lakers have gone 5-2 in the seven games Reaves has played. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic both missing significant time due to injuries, head coach JJ Redick has leaned heavily on Reaves to handle primary playmaking and scoring duties. His poise and improved efficiency have been vital in keeping the Lakers’ offense afloat during that stretch.

Now, with Doncic recently returning to the floor, Reaves’ return gives Los Angeles another reliable scoring option and some much-needed insurance heading into Charlotte. The Hornets, meanwhile, are dealing with their own injury woes — seven players are listed on their report, including LaMelo Ball, who remains sidelined with a right ankle impingement. However, Miles Bridges is set to make his season debut, giving Charlotte a boost in offensive firepower.

Still, the Lakers can’t afford to take this matchup lightly. They made that mistake against the Atlanta Hawks, falling 122-102 in a game where effort and energy appeared inconsistent from the start. Redick’s frustration was evident, as his postgame press conference lasted less than two minutes.

Now entering the second contest of their five-game road trip, the Lakers will look to keep their 4-1 record away from home intact. Now that Reaves is cleared to return, his presence could be exactly what Los Angeles needs to get back on track.

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Staff Writer