The LA Lakers could be without Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell for their matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday. Both players are listed as questionable after missing Sunday’s narrow 105-104 victory over the Utah Jazz.
Reaves is recovering from a pelvic contusion sustained during Friday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Meanwhile, Russell was sidelined due to a non-COVID illness.
Updates on D’Angelo Russell
Russell missed his first game of the season against the Jazz. He had been performing well before his illness, tallying 17 points, nine rebounds, and two steals in the Lakers’ loss to the Thunder on Friday.
Updates on Austin Reaves
Reaves suffered a hard fall during the second quarter of Friday’s game against the Thunder. Attempting a layup, he collided mid-air with Isaiah Hartenstein and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He landed awkwardly, causing visible pain.
According to Dan Woike of the LA Times, imaging on Reaves’ back showed no structural damage, which is promising for his return timeline. Reaves accompanied the team to Salt Lake City and will travel with them to Minnesota.
Return Timeline
Both Russell and Reaves are traveling with the Lakers, and their status for Monday’s game will be determined closer to tip-off after evaluation by the team’s medical staff. If they are unable to play, they may return Wednesday against the Miami Heat.
Importance of Russell and Reaves
The Lakers narrowly escaped defeat against a shorthanded Jazz team, relying heavily on Anthony Davis and LeBron James. The absence of Russell and Reaves was evident, as JJ Redick’s system functions more cohesively with their contributions.
Their availability will be crucial for the Lakers as they face a tough December schedule, starting with a challenging road game against the Timberwolves.
SOURCE: Sportkeeda.com