The Los Angeles Lakers' victory over the Milwaukee Bucks came with some injury concerns, as both Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic exited the game at different points after appearing to get hurt. Fortunately, Lakers head coach JJ Redick has provided some encouraging updates on both players. However, Doncic already has a plan in mind if Reaves is forced to miss time.
When asked how the team would respond if Reaves is unavailable, Doncic shared the importance of having a next-man-up mentality.
“I think we just gotta have next-man-up mentality,” Doncic said. “You know, obviously, we lose a very, very good player. Hopefully it’s nothing. We gotta have next-man-up mentality.”
Reaves exited the game after appearing to injure his left heel during the third quarter. The Lakers guard attempted a fast-break dunk but was blocked from behind and seemed to land awkwardly. Though he initially tried to continue playing, he eventually checked himself out and limped toward the locker room with assistance from team personnel.
The Lakers subsequently ruled Reaves out for the remainder of the game with a left heel injury. He finished the night with 18 points, five assists, three rebounds and three steals.
Following Reaves' exit, Doncic also appeared to roll his right ankle late in the fourth quarter after landing on Kyle Kuzma's foot following a three-point attempt. The Slovenian star then headed to the locker room, with Los Angeles already holding a comfortable lead and just over four minutes remaining.
Article Continues BelowDoncic offered fans a reassuring update about his own injury after the game, indicating that he was fine. However, Reaves' condition remains less certain, as the Lakers guard was scheduled to undergo additional imaging on Thursday.
With several days of rest before their next matchup, Los Angeles will hope that both Doncic and Reaves avoid any significant injuries and are able to return to the lineup soon.