Who is involved

Austin Reaves has been a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, emerging as one of their top performers since joining the team before the 2021-22 season. This season, he averaged an impressive 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. However, the Lakers’ playoff aspirations have taken a hit with Reaves’ recent injury.

On April 4, 2026, during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Reaves suffered a Grade 2 left oblique muscle injury. He had played 27 minutes in that game, contributing 15 points before the injury occurred. The Lakers lost that game 139-96, and the injury has left fans and analysts concerned about the team’s future.

Reaves is expected to miss four to six weeks, which means he will not return for the remainder of the regular season. The Lakers are currently competing for the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, holding a one-game lead over the No. 4 Denver Nuggets with only five games remaining. This injury comes at a critical time as the team looks to solidify its playoff position.

Adding to the Lakers’ woes, they also lost star player Luka Dončić to a Grade 2 hamstring strain, who will similarly miss the remainder of the regular season. This double blow raises questions about the Lakers’ depth and ability to compete in the playoffs without two of their key contributors.

Reaves had been playing through other injuries, including a right wrist issue, showcasing his determination to help the team. Following the injury, he underwent an MRI on his oblique/rib area, confirming the severity of the situation. As he prepares for recovery, Reaves is also expected to decline the final year of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, adding another layer of uncertainty to his future with the team.

In the wake of Reaves’ injury, Lakers players and staff are trying to adapt. LeBron James emphasized the need to “flip the mindset a little bit” to maintain focus on their goals. JJ Redick, a key voice in the locker room, stated, “Our mission, it hasn’t changed,” indicating that the team must rally together despite the setbacks.

With the Lakers’ final game of the season scheduled for April 12 against the Utah Jazz, the pressure is mounting. They must navigate the remaining games without Reaves and find ways to leverage their remaining talent, including playing through other players like LeBron, Luke Kennard, and Rui Hachimura. The next few weeks will be critical for the Lakers as they aim to secure their playoff spot amidst these challenges.