{"id":142113,"date":"2026-01-19T14:34:07","date_gmt":"2026-01-19T14:34:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=142113"},"modified":"2026-01-19T14:34:07","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T14:34:07","slug":"breaking-the-lakers-didnt-make-an-official-announcement-but-the-signs-are-there-a-major-hint-now-has-fans-reading-between-the-lines-about-when-austin-reaves-could-be-back","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportnews.azontree.com\/?p=142113","title":{"rendered":"Breaking: The Lakers didn\u2019t make an official announcement, but the signs are there. A major hint now has fans reading between the lines about when Austin Reaves could be back."},"content":{"rendered":"
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Austin Reaves Injury Update: JJ Redick Hints at Imminent Return as Lakers Get Healthier<\/h2>\n

\"Lakers<\/p>\n

The Los Angeles Lakers<\/strong> 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\u201393 victory over the Toronto Raptors<\/strong>. Even more encouraging than the win itself was the latest Austin Reaves injury update<\/strong>, delivered by head coach JJ Redick<\/strong> after the game.<\/p>\n

With the Lakers gradually getting key contributors back on the floor, Redick suggested that Reaves\u2019 return may not be far off\u2014news that could be critical as the team prepares for one of the most demanding stretches of its season.<\/p>\n

JJ Redick Provides Optimistic Austin Reaves Injury Update<\/h3>\n

Following Sunday\u2019s win, Redick struck an upbeat tone when asked about the Lakers\u2019 health situation.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe\u2019re starting to get healthy, and hopefully we get AR back soon,\u201d Redick said, via LakersNation.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Those comments immediately caught the attention of Lakers fans, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Reaves\u2019 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.<\/p>\n

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

Lakers Welcome Back Multiple Key Players From Injury<\/h3>\n

\"Lakers<\/p>\n

Sunday\u2019s matchup against Toronto marked an important step forward for the Lakers from a health standpoint. Deandre Ayton (knee)<\/strong>, Luka Don\u010di\u0107 (groin)<\/strong>, and Jaxson Hayes (hamstring)<\/strong> all returned to the lineup after sitting out Saturday\u2019s loss to the Portland Trail Blazers<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

With those three back in action, the Lakers\u2019 injury report was trimmed down considerably. Austin Reaves (calf strain)<\/strong> and rookie Austin Thiero (MCL)<\/strong> were the only players listed as unavailable, giving Redick legitimate reasons to feel optimistic about the roster stabilizing.<\/p>\n

For a team that has struggled to maintain lineup continuity this season, that progress matters\u2014especially with a difficult road-heavy schedule looming.<\/p>\n

What Happened to Austin Reaves?<\/h3>\n

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

That reevaluation timeline is now approaching, which makes Redick\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Injury Timeline: What the Data Says<\/h3>\n

While Redick\u2019s optimism is encouraging, historical data suggests caution. Injury analyst Jeff Stotts<\/strong> previously weighed in on Reaves\u2019 condition, noting that Grade 2 calf strains often require extended recovery periods in NBA players.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThe calf muscle complex is comprised of multiple muscles, including the two-headed gastrocnemius muscle and the soleus,\u201d Stotts explained. \u201cThe 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<\/strong>.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Based on that estimate, Reaves could miss at least 40 days<\/strong>, potentially pushing his return closer to the All-Star break<\/strong>. If that timeline holds, Redick\u2019s \u201chopefully soon\u201d comment may reflect progress rather than an immediate return.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

JJ Redick Praises Reaves\u2019 Engagement During Rehab<\/h3>\n

\"Lakers'<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cHe\u2019s been great,\u201d Redick said on January 10, via LakersNation.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHigh level. He didn\u2019t travel with us, so today was the first time I\u2019ve seen him in a few days. During this stretch\u2014and it kind of started with the first calf injury\u2014we spent some time together before the game in my office in our locker room.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Redick went on to describe how Reaves has contributed to discussions around after-timeout (ATO) plays<\/strong>, offering suggestions and tweaks to improve offensive efficiency.<\/p>\n

\n

\u201cA few times he\u2019s come in there and gone over all the ATOs with me and [other coaches] and made some potential suggestions and tweaks,\u201d Redick added.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs much as he tries to do the \u2018I\u2019m a simple Southern kid who only likes golf,\u2019 he\u2019s a basketball nut job.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

That level of engagement underscores Reaves\u2019 value beyond the box score. His basketball IQ and feel for the game have become increasingly important to the Lakers\u2019 offensive identity.<\/p>\n

Why Austin Reaves\u2019 Return Matters So Much<\/h3>\n

The Lakers currently sit at 25\u201316<\/strong>, 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 Don\u010di\u0107.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Defensively, while not elite, Reaves provides effort and positional awareness that help stabilize lineups\u2014particularly against opposing guards.<\/p>\n

Brutal Schedule Leaves Little Margin for Error<\/h3>\n

The urgency surrounding Reaves\u2019 return is amplified by the Lakers\u2019 upcoming schedule. Beginning Tuesday, Los Angeles embarks on an eight-game road trip<\/strong>, one of the toughest stretches of the season.<\/p>\n

That trip culminates with the annual Grammy Road Trip<\/strong>, which ends on February 3<\/strong>. Historically, this portion of the schedule has tested the Lakers\u2019 depth and mental toughness, even in healthier seasons.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Looking Ahead: Cautious Optimism for Lakers Fans<\/h3>\n

While a precise return date remains unclear, the overall tone surrounding the Austin Reaves injury<\/strong> has shifted toward optimism. Redick\u2019s comments suggest that progress is being made, and the Lakers\u2019 improving health elsewhere on the roster reduces the pressure to force an early comeback.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

For now, patience remains the key\u2014but for the first time in weeks, Lakers fans have real reason to believe that Austin Reaves\u2019 return is finally on the horizon.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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