Austin Reaves remains sidelined rehabbing a calf injury, with no new return timeline from coach JJ Redick.
Despite being out, Reaves has been active on the bench, helping coach and teammates and even suggesting plays.
Redick called Reaves a “basketball nut-job,” praising his high-level engagement and leadership during recovery.
Reaves was having an All-Star-caliber season and faces a big financial offseason decision in 2026.

Reaves staying engaged while rehabbing

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers are still without guard Austin Reaves as he continues to recover from a calf injury. Ahead of the team’s matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks, head coach JJ Redick said there’s no new update on Reaves’ timeline to return, but he praised the player’s presence and impact off the court.

From sideline to strategy

Redick described Reaves as more than a teammate during his absence. While rehabbing, Reaves has been frequently on the bench, offering instruction, encouragement and even Xs-and-Os input to the coaching staff. Redick said Reaves has come into his office and locker room to discuss everything from recovery to late-game plays, making suggestions and tweaks to after-timeout (ATO) sets.

“He could be talking about golf, could be talking about his recovery. A few times he’s come in there and kind of gone over ATO’s with me… made potential suggestions and tweaks,” Redick said. “As much as he tries to do the, ‘I’m a simple Southern kid who only likes golf,’ he’s a basketball nut-job.”

Season context and All-Star buzz

Before the injury, Reaves was enjoying a career season that had him in All-Star conversation. In 23 games, he averaged a career-high 26.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists while shooting 50.7 percent from the field and 87.3 percent from the free-throw line. A three-game stretch earlier in the season included a 51-point game, a 41-point performance, and a game-winner that helped cement his breakout status.

NBA PR’s most recent All-Star returns showed Reaves near the top of Western Conference voting, underscoring how his absence is felt both for personal honors and for the Lakers’ lineup stability.

Embedded social post: NBA PR — All-Star returns (X)

Long-term outlook

Beyond the short-term impact, Reaves faces a significant financial decision this offseason. He declined a contract extension last summer and is expected to weigh options ahead of the 2026 offseason, with a long-term deal likely in play if both sides agree.

For now, the Lakers are focused on getting Reaves healthy for the stretch run. Redick’s comments highlight that even while off the court, Reaves continues to contribute to team preparation and chemistry — a steadying presence the Lakers will want back for a playoff push.

Image Referance: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/jj-redick-reveals-austin-reaves-033733872.html