Austin Reaves Injury Update: Lakers Guard to Undergo MRI After Calf Soreness

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The Los Angeles Lakers have been dealing with a string of injuries, and their latest concern is guard Austin Reaves, who exited Friday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers with right calf soreness. Reaves played only nine minutes and scored six points before heading to the locker room late in the first quarter. The Lakers announced during the second quarter that Reaves wouldn't return to the game. According to sources, Reaves will undergo an MRI on Saturday to determine the severity of the injury.

Reaves has been a crucial player for the Lakers, averaging 19.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.3 rebounds while starting 53 games. His absence was felt, but the Lakers still managed to win the game 106-102 against the Clippers. The team is already without starter Rui Hachimura, who strained his left knee on Thursday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coach JJ Redick said Hachimura's injury is not serious, but his return to the court is still uncertain. The Lakers have won 15 of their past 18 games and are currently fourth in the Western Conference standings, just a half game behind the Memphis Grizzlies and a game back of the Denver Nuggets.

The Lakers' recent success can be attributed to the strong performances of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who have been playing despite their own nagging injuries. James scored 28 points and had 13 rebounds, while Doncic had 31 points, five assists, and three steals in the win against the Clippers. The Lakers' bench also outscored the Clippers' reserves 29-14, with Gabe Vincent starting the second half in place of Reaves. The team's depth and resilience have been key factors in their success, and they will need to continue to rely on these qualities as they navigate the challenges of the NBA season.

Here are the current standings for the Western Conference:

• Lakers: 37-21
• Memphis Grizzlies: 38-20
• Denver Nuggets: 38-20

The Lakers have a crucial game on Sunday against the Clippers, and Reaves' status is still uncertain. However, according to reports, Reaves' MRI revealed no serious injury to his right calf, and he could play as soon as Sunday. This is great news for the Lakers, who have come to rely on Reaves as their third-best player behind James and Doncic. Reaves has established himself as a key contributor, averaging 19 points, six assists, four rebounds, and a steal, while shooting 36% from 3-point range. His consistency has been a major factor in the Lakers' success, and his return to the court would be a significant boost to the team's chances of securing a high seed in the playoffs.

The Lakers will need to continue to monitor Reaves' injury and make adjustments as necessary. With their current winning streak and strong team chemistry, they are well-positioned to make a deep run in the playoffs. However, the Western Conference is highly competitive, and the Lakers will need to stay focused and motivated to achieve their goals. As the season enters its final stretch, the Lakers will be looking to build on their momentum and secure a top seed in the playoffs.

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