The Lakers’ road trip may soon get a welcome boost. After missing several games with a mild groin strain, Austin Reaves has officially been upgraded to questionable for Monday’s matchup against the Charlotte Hornets — the clearest sign yet that his return is just around the corner.
JJ Redick had an encouraging update before the team departed Los Angeles, telling reporters that imaging confirmed only a minor strain and that Reaves’ pain level is “really low right now.” Redick added, “Given where he’s at physically, I would expect him to be back at some point on this trip.” That optimism lines up with the Lakers’ latest injury report, which shifted Reaves from “out” to “questionable” for the first time since his setback.
JJ Redick on Austin Reaves (out with a minor groin strain):
“Given the fact that his pain is low, I would expect him to be back at some point on this trip.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 8, 2025
Lakers Holding Steady Without Him
The timing couldn’t be better. The Lakers have held their own without Reaves thanks to contributions from Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, and Nick Smith Jr. But they’ve clearly missed his mix of shot creation and ball movement. Before the injury, Reaves was averaging double figures on efficient shooting while functioning as one of the team’s playmakers alongside Luka Doncic. He had become a stabilizing factor in JJ Redick’s offense.
The Patient Approach
Groin injuries can be tricky, especially for someone who relies on his shiftiness as much as Reaves does. But the fact that his discomfort is minimal and the strain is mild suggests the Lakers are prioritizing his long-term health over short-term health. Redick has been very clear that the team misses him while emphasizing that Reaves will only return when fully ready.
What His Return Means
If Reaves suits up in Charlotte or later on this road trip, it would mean the Lakers will have a reliable playmaker on the floor at all times between him and Luka.
The Lakers have proven they can win shorthanded, but a healthy Austin Reaves significantly widens their margin for error, giving them the balance and composure that turns good stretches into sustained momentum.
