Lakers’ JJ Redick provides worrisome update on Austin Reaves’ groin injury that could sideline him

The Los Angeles Lakers are on a roll and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. A major factor in their early-season success has been Austin Reaves’ hot start. His performance in the first five games of the season has been historically remarkable.

“34.2 PPG. 10.0 APG. 1.8 SPG. 52.5 FG%. 38.5 3P%. 89.7 FT%. That’s what the Lakers’ Austin Reaves is averaging in 5 games this season. No one else in NBA history has put up those numbers or better over any 5-game span in a single season,” Opta Stats posted.

Reaves has made it clear that he wants to remain in LA after this season, but his current play could complicate the Lakers’ plans.

“On top of that, if Reaves keeps churning out performances like that one, teams around the league will certainly take even more notice. That could hike up his pricetag in free agency and perhaps even make more teams interested in throwing him an offer. That’s dangerous for the Lakers. Reaves playing well is obviously amazing for the Lakers, but it’s going to make the team’s future a bit trickier to navigate after this season, one way or another,” Lake Show Life’s Jack Simone wrote.

On Monday, Reaves did not suit up on the second night of a back-to-back. While skipping a back-to-back game is not unusual in today’s NBA, Lakers head coach JJ Redick revealed that Reaves is dealing with an injury that could sideline him for some time.

“JJ Redick said Austin Reaves tweaked his groin early in last night’s win vs. Miami, and he played through it towards 26 points and 11 assists. Reaves is sore today and won’t play tonight; Redick said they’ll evaluate him again tomorrow,” Lakers reporter Mike Trudell posted.

This could be a significant loss for the Lakers, as Reaves has been on an incredible tear to start the season. The groin discomfort may also explain any inconsistencies in his shooting.

With LeBron James expected to be out for at least a couple more weeks, the Lakers will rely heavily on Reaves to continue performing at a high level. While nothing is certain, this situation is far from ideal for both Reaves and the team.