During a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves suffered a concerning fall in the second quarter. Fortunately, he was able to return for the second half, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite the physical setback.
Following the game, an MRI revealed no structural damage to Reaves’ back, allowing him to travel with the team for their upcoming match against the Utah Jazz, although his status for that game remains uncertain. Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the tough nature of Reaves and noted that while he was clearly impacted by the fall, he still managed to contribute to the game.
The incident occurred when Reaves executed a deceptive play that caught the Thunder off guard. As he attempted to drive towards the basket, he collided mid-air with two defenders, resulting in a hard landing on his back. Medical staff assessed Reaves on-site, and although he initially continued to play, he ultimately left the court for further evaluation.
To everyone’s surprise, Reaves returned to the game in the third quarter, finishing with 11 points, five rebounds, and three assists. His performance this season has been impressive, as he was averaging a career-high 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game prior to the incident, showing his vital role in the Lakers’ lineup alongside stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Lakers have had a challenging start to the season, experiencing ups and downs including a six-game winning streak followed by four losses in five games, placing them at 11-8 in a competitive Western Conference. However, Reaves’ continued health and performance could be a significant asset as the team looks to regain momentum.
This resilience not only underscores Reaves’ importance to the Lakers, but it also reflects the team’s spirit as they navigate an unpredictable season. Fans can take hope in the fact that key players like Reaves are stepping up and with continued teamwork, the Lakers can aim for success as the season progresses.