Not all NBA questionable statuses are created equal.
As the Lakers prepare to play against the Wizards, Luka Dončić has been downgraded to questionable for the game, while Austin Reaves has the same status,
although his is an upgrade that hints at his potential return.
Reaves has missed the last 17 games due to this Grade 2 calf strain. Lakers head coach JJ Redick stated that he has been “progressing well” and was hopeful Reaves would be able to play during the team’s road trip.
This is the first time Reaves has been upgraded to questionable since being sidelined with this injury.
The Lakers could absolutely use Reaves production. He is averaging 26.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game. Not only did this injury hurt the Lakers by keeping their starting guard out, but it also took away Reaves’ eligibility for NBA awards.
He has missed too many games already and will not reach the 65-game threshold necessary to be up for any end-of-season accolades.
While Reaves status is a positive, Luka’s is a negative. He hurt his ankle during LA’s game in Cleveland, falling off the raised court of hopping backwards following a 3-point attempt. It’s unusual for an NBA floor to be elevated and Redick said it was a safety hazard during his postgame media availability.
Considering that Luka might miss a game due to the raised floor causing his fall, it appears he is absolutely right. Luckily, the injury wasn’t a catastrophe and Luka might even suit up in Washington if the ankle holds up.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
