The Lakers remain without LeBron James (right-side sciatica), while Deandre Ayton’s status is worth monitoring after exiting Friday’s game with back spasms. He didn’t return for the second half, as head coach JJ Redick opted to hold him out for precautionary reasons.

From an undrafted prospect labeled “unathletic,” Austin Reaves’ journey is remarkable. He secured a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021, but it was the mid-season injuries to LeBron James and Luka Doncic that fully unleashed his potential as a primary creator.