JJ Redick Provides Encouraging Injury Update on Austin Reaves After Lakers’ Loss to Knicks

New York — Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick delivered an important injury update on star guard Austin Reaves following the team’s loss to the New York Knicks on Sunday night, offering cautious optimism about a potential return in the coming days.

Reaves has been sidelined for more than a month after suffering a calf strain on Christmas Day during the Lakers’ loss to the Houston Rockets. Since then, he has been absent from the starting lineup, leaving a noticeable void in Los Angeles’ scoring balance, secondary playmaking, and perimeter shooting.

After the game, Redick addressed Reaves’ status and suggested that while a return is possible soon, the team will not rush the guard back without full confidence in his health.

Austin Reaves Nearing a Return, But Still Day-to-Day

Speaking to reporters, Redick expressed hope that Reaves could be available for the Lakers’ next matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, but emphasized that the medical staff and coaching team remain cautious.

“JJ Redick says hopefully Lakers will have Austin Reaves for Brooklyn, but he is day-to-day and needs 100 percent confidence in his calf before he plays,” reported Law Murray.

The update marks the most optimistic outlook on Reaves’ recovery since his injury, though Redick made it clear that the team will prioritize long-term health over short-term gains. Calf injuries, especially for guards who rely heavily on burst and lateral movement, are notoriously tricky, and the Lakers are determined to avoid any setback.

Lakers Feeling the Impact of Reaves’ Absence

Reaves’ extended absence has forced the Lakers to reshuffle their offensive responsibilities. Luka Dončić and LeBron James have shouldered an increased workload, often handling primary creation duties while logging heavy minutes during a demanding stretch of the schedule.

While Los Angeles has managed to remain competitive, Reaves’ absence has been felt in several key areas:

• Secondary scoring

• Floor spacing

• Playmaking in non-LeBron lineups

• Late-game offensive execution

At his best, Reaves serves as a connective piece who keeps the offense flowing, alleviating pressure on the team’s superstars and punishing defensive lapses.

Lakers Fall Short Against Knicks at Madison Square Garden

The Lakers’ loss to the Knicks underscored how thin their margin for error has become without Reaves.

Los Angeles played strong basketball in the first half, taking a 56–52 lead into halftime. However, the Knicks dominated the final two quarters, outscoring the Lakers 60–44 in the second half to secure the win at Madison Square Garden.

Despite the loss, several Lakers delivered notable performances.

Luka Dončić led the way with a near triple-double, finishing with:

• 30 points

• 15 rebounds

• 8 assists

Dončić shot 10-of-23 from the field, knocked down five three-pointers, and went 5-of-6 from the free-throw line in another heavy-usage performance.

LeBron James followed with 22 points and six assists, continuing to anchor the team during Reaves’ absence. Deandre Ayton contributed 13 points and five rebounds, while Rui Hachimura added 11 points and three rebounds off the bench.

Still, the lack of consistent perimeter scoring and ball movement in the second half proved costly, as New York tightened its defense and forced the Lakers into difficult looks.

JJ Redick Evaluating the Big Picture

Since taking over as head coach, Redick has emphasized discipline, spacing, and smart shot selection. However, the ongoing injury challenges have tested the Lakers’ depth and lineup flexibility.

Redick acknowledged after the loss that the team’s recent road stretch has been demanding, especially without a key contributor like Reaves. The Knicks game marked another reminder that Los Angeles needs all of its core pieces healthy to maintain consistency against elite competition.

The Lakers are nearing the end of a long road trip, and fatigue has become a factor—particularly with Dončić and James logging heavy minutes night after night.

Where the Lakers Stand in the West

Following the loss, the Lakers fell to a 29–19 record, placing them seventh in the Western Conference standings. They currently sit ahead of the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors, but trail the Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets in a tightly packed playoff race.

With the postseason picture beginning to take shape, every game carries increased importance. The return of Austin Reaves could be a critical turning point as the Lakers look to solidify their standing and avoid the play-in tournament.

Looking Ahead: Brooklyn Nets Up Next

The Lakers will have little time to dwell on the loss as they prepare for their next game against the Brooklyn Nets on February 3 at 7:30 p.m. ET, which will also mark the end of their road trip.

All eyes will be on the injury report to see whether Reaves is cleared to return. Even if he does not play, his progression toward full health is a positive sign for a team searching for stability.

Final Thoughts

While the Lakers continue to grind through a challenging stretch without Austin Reaves, JJ Redick’s latest update offers a reason for optimism. Reaves’ return—when it comes—could provide the balance and versatility Los Angeles has been missing.

For now, patience remains the priority. But with the playoff race tightening and the schedule growing more unforgiving, the Lakers know they will need their full complement of talent soon. If Reaves is able to return at full strength, it could give Los Angeles the boost it needs at a crucial point in the season.