Austin Reeves nears return from left calf strain and maybe so Available from Tuesday, February 3, 2026when the Los Angeles Lakers visited the Brooklyn Nets. The guard is still listed as a full-time player, and the team is choosing not to rush him back until he is fully healthy.His recovery comes at a critical time in the season. The NBA trade deadline is set for Feb. 12, and Reeves’ status could affect how the Lakers handle roster decisions and cap plans in the coming days.
Austin Reaves injury status and recovery schedule
Austin Reaves suffered a Grade 2 muscle strain in his left calf against the San Antonio Spurs and has been sidelined since December 25, 2025. As of February 1st, he has missed 19 consecutive games. The Lakers took a cautious approach, especially since he had previously aggravated the same calf.He is currently listed as “questionable” and the team has declined to give a clear timetable for his return. Head coach JJ Reddick said Reeves must have full confidence in his calf before being cleared to play. As such, he did not play in the February 1st game against the New York Knicks, despite the in-game decision.
Austin Reaves likely to return against Brooklyn Nets
Reeves could return on Tuesday, assuming he can successfully complete a full workout on Monday, February 2nd. If cleared, he is expected to play under a one-minute restriction. Even if he doesn’t play against the Nets, the team expects him to return soon. His return could come within the next week, either just before or after the Feb. 12 deadline. This cautious approach reflects the team’s focus on avoiding further setbacks for a player who has become an important part of the rotation.
Impact on Los Angeles Lakers lineup
When healthy, Reeves serves as the Los Angeles Lakers’ second ball handler and reliable third scoring option. This season, he averaged about 18-20 points and 5-6 assists while shooting nearly 40 percent from 3-point range.Without him, the Lakers will rely more on D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Taurean Prince. This stretch shows the team needs consistent shot creation, and Reaves typically helps in this area.
Impact on trading deadlines
Austin Reeves has a team-friendly four-year contract signed in 2023, but his relatively low cap hold gives the Lakers flexibility heading into the offseason. The organization believes his contract is mobile and beneficial for cap management, and was reluctant to include him in a major trade that could impact its long-term finances.If he returns before the deadline, the front office may feel less pressure to take urgent action and instead focus on small upgrades or preserving assets for future free agency. If he continues to be sidelined, the Los Angeles Lakers could look for more playmaking, especially as the playoff contention in the Western Conference gets tighter.
what to expect next
The most likely outcome is that Austin Reaves returns against the Nets or within the next few games with a limited workload. The team’s message suggests that he will be gradually strengthened, rather than immediately playing a full role in the starting lineup.His return would also answer one of the team’s major questions heading into the deadline. The undrafted guard, who has developed into a key contributor, is close to returning to the lineup, and we should get a clear answer about his availability within the next seven to 10 days.