LA Lakers Injury Update: Concerns Rise as Austin Reaves and 2 Others Ruled Out vs. Phoenix Suns (Dec. 14)

The LA Lakers listed three players on the injury report ahead of their game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday. Austin Reaves headlined the list after the star guard was ruled out for at least a week with a left calf strain. Reaves, who has put up MVP-level numbers this year, saw a slight dip in his production over the last two games.

In the Lakers' NBA Cup quarterfinal loss against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, Reaves shot 6 of 16 from the field for 15 points. Over his last two appearances, the Lakers guard missed 23 shots from 32 attempts.

Daniel Starkand

@DStarkand

JJ Redick says the Lakers are being “cautious” with Austin Reaves but it’s a mild grade 1 strain and they expect him back in around one week.

The injury-forced time away from the team is bound to do a ton of good for Reaves, who will get a much-needed rest after playing big minutes during the early part of the season. Lakers fans would hope that Reaves recovers within the estimated timeframe and isn't forced to miss any extra time.

Meanwhile, Maxi Kleber will miss his third consecutive game with a lumbar muscle strain. Bronny James is currently with the South Bay Lakers on a G League assignment and won't be available for the Lakers on Sunday.

After the Lakers lost against the Spurs and bowed out of the in-season tournament, coach JJ Redick called for a team meeting on Friday. The objective of the meeting was to address the team's lacklustre performance on the defensive end of the floor, which has remained a cause for concern.

How to watch LA Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns?

The LA Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns game will take place on Sunday at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The game will tip off at 8 p.m. EST (5 p.m. PT).

The Lakers vs. Suns game will be telecast live on the Spectrum SportsNet LA (local) and AZFamily (local). Live streaming will be available on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).