JJ Redick may face increasing frustration as Lakers’ second-leading scorer Austin Reaves has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left gastrocnemius strain, sidelining him for at least the next 14 games. Reaves, who has been performing at an All-Star level with averages of 26.6 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.2 rebounds, suffered the injury on Christmas Day. His absence will shift playmaking responsibilities to LeBron James and backup guards, further straining a team that has lost three straight games. The Lakers are struggling, going 2-4 over their last six, with the worst defense in the league during this period.
