Austin Reaves is finally hitting the court tonight, making his preseason debut for the Lakers against the Kings on Thursday! After sitting out the first two exhibition contests, Head coach JJ Redick confirmed pregame that Reaves is back, marking his first appearance since he inked that big deal to return to the Lakers this summer. You know what that means: the guy who got paid is ready to show up, and fans are buzzing.
Reaves Returns, And The Stars Align
This isn’t just about Reaves being back, though. This is about seeing something special. While Reaves will be out there, he won’t be joined by everyone who’s been sidelined. Still, the most exciting part? Luka Dončić wasn’t even mentioned in any injury updates! That’s huge! It means not only is Reaves playing tonight, but we’re going to see that superstar pair, Reaves and Dončić, on the court together for the very first time this season. They played plenty last year, sure, but there’s a different energy this time around. It feels like a new era for the Lakers, and seeing them both out there is what’s going to usher this team forward. It’s time to see what this combo can really do!
The Injury Report: Just Minor Bumps, Coach Says
Now, while Reaves is back, a few guys are still out. Walker Kessler is still sidelined after jamming a finger during practice. Collin Sexton and Arthur Kaluma are also sitting this one out. Joining them on the bench for Thursday’s game are Ziaire Williams, Cameron Carr, and Dalton Knecht. Redick described Williams as having “some soreness,” while Carr and Knecht apparently took some hits, leading to contusions. But here’s the kicker: Coach Redick has been totally steadfast, insisting these are not long-term concerns. He even said Kessler’s finger isn’t concerning and that he “will play in the preseason.” For Williams, he’s got soreness, but Redick isn’t “worried about it.” Carr and Knecht just “got hit” and have contusions. With over another week of games left and more practice coming, there really isn’t any reason to panic about anyone who hasn’t played yet. Not yet, anyway.
After a flurry of games this week, the Lakers will catch a break, off until Tuesday. Then they’ll wrap up the preseason with a game next Friday. Looks like it’s all about getting everyone healthy and ready for the real deal.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Silver Screen and Roll.
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