Mon Mar 03 05:10:00 UTC 2025: **Lakers’ Reaves Exits Game with Calf Soreness, to Undergo MRI**
**Los Angeles, CA** – Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves left Friday night’s 106-102 victory over the LA Clippers in the first quarter due to right calf soreness and did not return. The team announced that Reaves will undergo an MRI on Saturday to determine the extent of the injury.
Reaves, who had been playing exceptionally well averaging 23.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in February, exited the game with 2:58 remaining in the first quarter. Lakers coach JJ Redick described the injury as calf tightness and soreness, emphasizing that Reaves was held out as a precaution.
The injury adds to the Lakers’ woes, as they are already without starting forward Rui Hachimura, who is sidelined with a left knee strain sustained Thursday. Hachimura also had an MRI on Friday, but a return timeline is yet to be determined. Redick expressed optimism that neither injury is serious.
Despite the injuries, the Lakers secured a crucial win, fueled by strong performances from LeBron James (28 points, 13 rebounds) and Luka Doncic (31 points, 5 assists, 3 steals). The Lakers’ bench also outscored the Clippers’ reserves 29-14.
The victory extends the Lakers’ recent success; they have won 15 of their last 18 games, propelling them to fourth place in the Western Conference standings. However, LeBron James cautioned against complacency, acknowledging the team’s injuries and the need to improve their overall performance.
First Piper 