Austin Reaves injury update: When will the Lakers guard return to the court?

Despite LeBron James’ absence, the Los Angeles Lakers are on a roll, with Luka Doncic inspiring JJ Redick’s team to a fifth straight victory against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday. That latest win came without another key player: Austin Reaves, who has been one of the Lakers’ standout performers so far this season. It now looks likely that the guard will miss more time on court.

What injury does Austin Reaves have?

Reaves has sat out Los Angeles’ last two games, including Monday’s triumph over the Portland Trail Blazers, because of a groin issue. Redick told the Los Angeles Times he won’t be rushing the 27-year-old back into action.

“He’s got some soreness in that right groin,” Redick said, recalling his own experience with similar injuries during his playing career. “Those injuries, or a further injury on that, is hard. I’ve had ’em. I’ve had surgery. We’re just trying to be safe with him. And hopefully, that is Saturday, but we’re not going to put him at risk.”

LeBron to miss road trip

The Lakers visit the Atlanta Hawks in their next game on Saturday, which James will definitely not be involved in. The 40-year-old superstar has already been out for a month and isn’t expected to play during the upcoming five-game road trip, which also includes games against the Hornets (Nov. 10), Thunder (Nov. 12), Pelicans (Nov. 14, NBA Cup), and Bucks (Nov. 15).

Return timelines uncertain

There is some hope that LeBron will be available for the home game against the Jazz on Nov. 18, although a decision on his availability will be made closer to the date.

Reaves, meanwhile, should return during the road trip, although Redick’s comments suggest Monday’s game against Charlotte is a more realistic target than Saturday’s matchup in Atlanta.

Lakers climb in the West

The Lakers’ five-game winning streak has lifted them to 7-2 for the season and into second place in the Western Conference, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are 8-1.

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