SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – NOVEMBER 23: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the second half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on November 23, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

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Justin Grasso

By Justin Grasso

Contributing Sports Writer

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As the Los Angeles Lakers battled against the Houston Rockets for their Christmas Day game, the Lakers lost their star guard, Austin Reaves, early on.

The veteran clocked in for 15 minutes in the first half. He shot efficiently during that time, going 5-8 from the field, knocking down two of his five attempts from beyond the arc.

Reaves left the court with 12 points, one rebound, one assist, and one block.

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As the Lakers worked on coming back against the Rockets in the second half, they ruled out Reaves for the remainder of the game. According to Chris Haynes, Reaves is dealing with left calf soreness.

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A calf strain has been a lingering issue for Reaves lately. Earlier this week, the Lakers matched up against the Phoenix Suns, and they started with Reaves on the injury report. However, he was cleared for action.

The Suns game was Reaves’ first action since December 10. After he suffered his setback against the San Antonio Spurs earlier this month, the Lakers held him out for three games in a row.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 10: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers attempts a three-point basket during the fourth quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinal against the San Antonio Spurs at Crypto.com Arena on December 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)

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When Reaves faced the Suns two days before the Christmas Day game, he came off the bench for just 21 minutes of action. Reaves still played a major role by producing 17 points, two rebounds, and two assists. Unfortunately, he couldn’t be a difference-maker. The Lakers dropped their second game in a row with a 132-108 loss.

The Lakers couldn’t overcome Reaves’ absence and fell short against the Rockets. They dropped to 19-10 on the year. Heading into Thursday’s game, the Lakers placed fourth in the Western Conference. They trailed the Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Fortunately, Reaves was reportedly able to leave the arena on Thursday night without a brace, boot, or crutch. The team's head coach, JJ Redick, did not have any comments on Reaves.

The next time the Lakers take the court will be on December 28. Reaves’ availability for the matchup against the Sacramento Kings will be something to keep an eye on.

For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.

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