Lakers Injury Update: Austin Reaves Listed Day-to-Day, Jarred Vanderbilt Eyes Season-Opening Return
The Los Angeles Lakers are approaching the start of the 2024-25 NBA season with some injury concerns, particularly involving key players Austin Reaves and Jarred Vanderbilt. Both have been dealing with minor injuries during preseason, but the Lakers remain optimistic about their availability for the start of the regular season.
Austin Reaves: Day-to-Day with Ankle Soreness
Austin Reaves, who emerged as a vital piece of the Lakers’ lineup, has been sidelined in preseason due to a sore ankle. The Lakers coaching staff, led by head coach JJ Redick, has opted for a cautious approach, keeping Reaves out of recent preseason games to prevent any aggravation of the injury. The third-year guard participated in non-contact portions of practice, but his status remains day-to-day.
The Lakers are keen to preserve Reaves’ health as he is expected to play an even bigger role in the team this season. Redick has expressed confidence in Reaves’ ability to step up offensively, especially in a playmaking role. Despite a slow shooting start to the preseason, Reaves has contributed significantly in other areas, averaging 12.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.0 assists while generating a lot of trips to the free-throw line.
With the regular season fast approaching, the team will continue to monitor Reaves’ condition closely. Though his participation in upcoming preseason games remains uncertain, the expectation is that he will be ready by the season opener, barring any setbacks.
Jarred Vanderbilt: Targeting Season Opener
Jarred Vanderbilt, another key player for the Lakers, has been dealing with a nagging heel injury. The soreness, which has built up over time, has kept Vanderbilt sidelined during preseason action as a precaution. Vanderbilt’s injury occurred during practice, but head coach Darvin Ham and the medical staff have been proactive, opting to rest him in order to prevent further complications.
Though Vanderbilt has been out of action, the Lakers are optimistic about his return by the beginning of the regular season. The versatile forward is a crucial part of the Lakers’ defensive schemes, bringing energy and athleticism to the team. His absence during preseason has been more precautionary, and there is no expectation that he will miss significant time. Ham reiterated that this was a strategic decision to allow Vanderbilt to recover fully without risking his long-term health.
Impact on the Team
The Lakers’ approach to injuries this preseason underscores the importance of player health, particularly given their challenges with injuries in previous seasons. Both Reaves and Vanderbilt are integral to the Lakers’ success, with Reaves expected to handle more playmaking duties and Vanderbilt providing crucial defensive support. The team is focused on ensuring both players are fully healthy by the season opener, aiming to avoid any lingering issues as they embark on what they hope will be a successful campaign.
As the Lakers inch closer to the regular season, the health of these players will remain a top priority. With cautious management and a bit of luck, the Lakers hope to start their season wit
h a fully fit roster.
