The Los Angeles Lakers continue their battle to maintain a strong position in the Western Conference, but a frightening moment during Friday night’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder raised concerns for the team. Austin Reaves, one of the Lakers’ key contributors this season, suffered a scary fall that temporarily sidelined him.

The incident occurred in the second quarter when Reaves drove to the basket for a layup. After attempting to beat Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Isaiah Hartenstein to the rim, Reaves collided with both players in mid-air. The force of the collision sent him crashing to the floor. The Lakers star then landed hard on his back.

Though Reaves initially remained in the game, he soon signaled for a substitution. The injury was initially estimated to be a hard blow as he headed to the locker room in visible pain.

Reaves’ absence was felt immediately, as the versatile guard has been a key player for the Lakers this season. He played in all 18 games so far and is the team’s third-leading scorer behind superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

D’Angelo Russell stepped in for Reaves to start the third quarter. But the Lakers breathed a sigh of relief when Reaves returned to the bench later in the game. While his exact condition remains uncertain, his return suggests the injury may not be as severe as initially feared.

Lakers Insider Discusses How LeBron’s Retirement Could Impact Austin Reaves’ Future

LeBron James’ potential retirement after next season may have a significant impact on the Los Angeles Lakers, including the future of Austin Reaves. Lakers insider Jovan Buha recently shared his perspective on how the team might handle Reaves if James decides to step away from the game. Speaking on his podcast, Buha’s Block, Buha described the situation as uncertain.

“I would say it’s close to 50-50. I would lean probably 55 percent [that Reaves does] not [stay] because he can opt-out after next season, and I think he’s going to have a competitive market. [Reaves’ future is] depending on the Lakers potentially going in a different direction or having some difficult decisions to make if LeBron retires,” Buha said.

Reaves, who praised coach JJ Redick’s leadership, is set to become a sought-after free agent in 2025. His future is totally uncertain, but Buha believes the decision about his future with the team could hinge on the Lakers’ direction post-LeBron.

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