Austin Reaves Injury Update: JJ Redick Hints at Imminent Return as Lakers Get Healthier

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to battle through injuries, but Sunday night provided a welcome dose of optimism. Despite playing the second night of a back-to-back, the Lakers showed resilience and depth in a convincing 110–93 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Even more encouraging than the win itself was the latest Austin Reaves injury update, delivered by head coach JJ Redick after the game.

With the Lakers gradually getting key contributors back on the floor, Redick suggested that Reaves’ return may not be far off—news that could be critical as the team prepares for one of the most demanding stretches of its season.

JJ Redick Provides Optimistic Austin Reaves Injury Update

Following Sunday’s win, Redick struck an upbeat tone when asked about the Lakers’ health situation.

“We’re starting to get healthy, and hopefully we get AR back soon,” Redick said, via LakersNation.

Those comments immediately caught the attention of Lakers fans, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Reaves’ recovery timeline. While Redick did not provide a specific return date, his wording suggested growing confidence that Reaves is nearing the final stages of his rehab.

The timing of those remarks was significant. The Lakers had just completed a grueling five-games-in-seven-days stretch, finishing it on a strong note despite missing several rotation players along the way.

Lakers Welcome Back Multiple Key Players From Injury

Sunday’s matchup against Toronto marked an important step forward for the Lakers from a health standpoint. Deandre Ayton (knee), Luka Dončić (groin), and Jaxson Hayes (hamstring) all returned to the lineup after sitting out Saturday’s loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.

With those three back in action, the Lakers’ injury report was trimmed down considerably. Austin Reaves (calf strain) and rookie Austin Thiero (MCL) were the only players listed as unavailable, giving Redick legitimate reasons to feel optimistic about the roster stabilizing.

For a team that has struggled to maintain lineup continuity this season, that progress matters—especially with a difficult road-heavy schedule looming.

What Happened to Austin Reaves?

Reaves suffered his injury during a highly anticipated Christmas Day game against the Houston Rockets, when he was diagnosed with a Grade 2 left gastrocnemius (calf) strain. Shortly after the injury, the Lakers announced that Reaves would be reevaluated in four weeks, placing his initial return window toward late January.

That reevaluation timeline is now approaching, which makes Redick’s recent comments even more notable. The organization is entering the phase where medical staff can better determine whether Reaves is ready to ramp up basketball activities or if additional recovery time is required.

Injury Timeline: What the Data Says

While Redick’s optimism is encouraging, historical data suggests caution. Injury analyst Jeff Stotts previously weighed in on Reaves’ condition, noting that Grade 2 calf strains often require extended recovery periods in NBA players.

“The calf muscle complex is comprised of multiple muscles, including the two-headed gastrocnemius muscle and the soleus,” Stotts explained. “The muscles share a conjoined tendon, the Achilles. The average time lost for all Grade 2 calf strains in the NBA is approximately 40.1 days.”

Based on that estimate, Reaves could miss at least 40 days, potentially pushing his return closer to the All-Star break. If that timeline holds, Redick’s “hopefully soon” comment may reflect progress rather than an immediate return.

Still, calf injuries can vary significantly depending on severity, response to treatment, and conditioning levels. The fact that Reaves is nearing his reevaluation window keeps the door open for a slightly earlier return than initially expected.

JJ Redick Praises Reaves’ Engagement During Rehab

Even while sidelined, Reaves has remained heavily involved with the team. Redick has repeatedly praised the guard for his mental engagement and leadership during the rehab process.

Earlier this month, Redick shared insight into how active Reaves has been behind the scenes, particularly when it comes to offensive strategy and late-game execution.

“He’s been great,” Redick said on January 10, via LakersNation.

“High level. He didn’t travel with us, so today was the first time I’ve seen him in a few days. During this stretch—and it kind of started with the first calf injury—we spent some time together before the game in my office in our locker room.”

Redick went on to describe how Reaves has contributed to discussions around after-timeout (ATO) plays, offering suggestions and tweaks to improve offensive efficiency.

“A few times he’s come in there and gone over all the ATOs with me and [other coaches] and made some potential suggestions and tweaks,” Redick added.

“As much as he tries to do the ‘I’m a simple Southern kid who only likes golf,’ he’s a basketball nut job.”

That level of engagement underscores Reaves’ value beyond the box score. His basketball IQ and feel for the game have become increasingly important to the Lakers’ offensive identity.

Why Austin Reaves’ Return Matters So Much

The Lakers currently sit at 25–16, firmly in the playoff mix but still searching for consistency. Reaves plays a crucial role as a secondary ball-handler, scorer, and connective piece between stars like LeBron James and Luka Dončić.

Without Reaves, the Lakers have often struggled with spacing, shot creation, and late-game decision-making. His ability to score efficiently, draw fouls, and make timely reads elevates the entire offense.

Defensively, while not elite, Reaves provides effort and positional awareness that help stabilize lineups—particularly against opposing guards.

Brutal Schedule Leaves Little Margin for Error

The urgency surrounding Reaves’ return is amplified by the Lakers’ upcoming schedule. Beginning Tuesday, Los Angeles embarks on an eight-game road trip, one of the toughest stretches of the season.

That trip culminates with the annual Grammy Road Trip, which ends on February 3. Historically, this portion of the schedule has tested the Lakers’ depth and mental toughness, even in healthier seasons.

Given the travel demands and level of competition, the chances of Reaves returning during this road swing appear slim. The Lakers are unlikely to rush him back before he is fully healthy, especially with calf injuries carrying a high risk of re-aggravation.

Looking Ahead: Cautious Optimism for Lakers Fans

While a precise return date remains unclear, the overall tone surrounding the Austin Reaves injury has shifted toward optimism. Redick’s comments suggest that progress is being made, and the Lakers’ improving health elsewhere on the roster reduces the pressure to force an early comeback.

If Reaves can return at or near full strength shortly after the All-Star break, it could serve as a major boost for a team with postseason ambitions. His reintegration into the lineup would give Redick more flexibility, better balance, and a higher offensive ceiling.

For now, patience remains the key—but for the first time in weeks, Lakers fans have real reason to believe that Austin Reaves’ return is finally on the horizon.