Austin Reaves Development Emerges Amid Third Missed Game for Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Nov 8, 2025 6:30 AM ET

Austin Reaves has missed the Los Angeles Lakers’ last two games due to injury, including Wednesday’s hard-fought 118-116 victory against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs. With Reaves sidelined, it was Luka Doncic who took center stage with 35 points, nine rebounds, 13 assists, five steals, two blocks and four triples in 42 minutes of action, leading L.A. to its fifth straight win.

Reaves had to watch his team from the bench on Wednesday as the 27-year-old continues to nurse a groin issue. A new development about the injury emerged on Friday after the Lakers announced Reaves’ status for Saturday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) during an NBA game.Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Reaves is now set to miss a third straight contest when the Lakers travel to Atlanta to face the Hawks on Saturday. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard has officially been ruled out due to a right groin strain.

Lakers reporter Anthony F. Irwin provided an update on Reaves after the team ruled him out for their next game. Irwin pointed out that Reaves’ injury is now being listed as a groin strain, whereas it was previously reported as soreness.

Irwin then revealed that Reaves underwent an MRI on Wednesday to assess the extent of the injury. The good news is that no significant damage was found. However, the Lakers are reportedly “playing this situation safe.”

Irwin believes that the fact that the Lakers are winning has motivated them to take a more cautious approach with Reeves. Nevertheless, there is reportedly some optimism that the former Oklahoma Sooners standout will be back on the court on Monday against the Charlotte Hornets.

Reaves is currently in the third year of his four-season deal with the Lakers. He has a player option for 2026-27. In seven games played this season, Reaves has averaged 31.1 points on 48.9% from the floor, 5.1 rebounds, 9.3 assists, 1.4 steals and 3.0 triples per contest. He currently leads the NBA in free throws made (9.3) and attempted (10.3) per game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: