It seems that both Austin Reaves and LeBron James gut hurt during the 2025 NBA playoffs. Post their humiliating defeat in Game 5 at home at the hand of Minnesota Timberwolves, it came to light that LeBron James got injured during the game.
Austin Reaves was suffering from injury
According to league insider Dave McMenamin, the King suffered from a Grade 2 MCL sprain. It could have kept him out of action for about 3 to 5 weeks had Lakers won Game 5. If that was the case, then James wouldn't had been available for Game 6 and 7.
But now reports are emerging that even Austin Reaves was suffering from an injury that he sustained during Game 3. NBA insider Trevor Lane reported on Friday that Austin Reaves was suffering from a left big toe sprain.
He further mentioned that Reaves would have missed 2 to 4 weeks of action but he choose to remain on the court and try to help his franchise make a comeback in the seven game series.
Can confirm that Austin Reaves was dealing with a left big toe sprain during the Playoffs. Was considered to be a 2-4 week injury but he gutted it out. I'm told Reaves was not walking on it on off days to try to get through the playoffs, Lane reported on X, formerly Twitter.
Given how two crucial players were injured for the Lakers, it was a matter of time that they would have given up. Luka Doncic, while playing for the Dallas Mavericks defeated Minnesota Timberwolves to reach the 2024 NBA finals but playing with half a squad does tend to take a toll on your own performances as well.
Austin Reaves will be retained by Lakers next season as well
The Los Angeles Lakers have concluded their NBA season after a first round exit at the hands of Minnesota Timberwolves. The big question for Rob Pelinka would be whether he wants to rebuilt the roster once again.
Having proven his worth alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James, Austin Reaves saw his trade value sky rocket. Keeping that in mind, the Lakers could chose to trade Reaves with another star. But, it seems like Reaves will be staying at the Lakers.
After Game 5 loss to the Timberwolves, reporters asked Pelinka what's his plans for the offseason. Reportedly, Pelinka still sees the trio of James, Doncic and Reaves playing here at Lakers in the next season as well.
The level of confidence in Austin Reaves, LeBron James and Luka Dončić is at an all-time high still, Pelinka said. So no change in how we feel about those three guys.
Reaves still has one year left on his contract and he even has a player option if he decides to stay for 2026-27 season.