The Los Angeles Lakers take on the San Antonio Spurs tonight in a matchup that could hold major postseason implications down the line. With several hours remaining before tip-off, the outlook has shifted dramatically for the home team.
Per the latest NBA Injury Report, Lakers guard Austin Reaves will miss tonight’s game due to injury management for his left calf.
The up-and-coming 27-year-old had appeared in four straight games after missing a long stretch due to injury last month. Now, he’ll sit the second leg of the back-to-back in an effort to prioritize his health for the long run.
Reaves is enjoying the best season of his five-year career when active. Over a 27-game sample, he’s averaging a career-high 25.7 points, 6.0 assists and 5.1 rebounds, also shooting 50.8% from the field. He’s looked quite good when healthy and has become a major piece of this Los Angeles rotation over the last two seasons, especially given his ability to help carry the load when his star teammates miss time.
The rest of the injury report is quite extensive for L.A. tonight. Luka Doncic (hamstring) and LeBron James (foot) are both out along with Reaves and Marcus Smart (ankle). Deandre Ayton (knee) is also questionable.
The Lakers are 32-20 on the campaign, sitting fifth in the Western Conference. Tonight’s game could hold major implications down the stretch as the postseason draws nearer, but the outlook appears grim as they host San Antonio.
Los Angeles is listed as a 12.5-point home underdog on DraftKings Sportsbook tonight against the Spurs.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
