Mavericks Challenge Lakers’ Coach on Injury Claims
The Mavericks have pushed back against how Lakers coach JJ Redick characterized the imaging results that identified Austin Reeves with a Grade 2 left oblique strain.
Following the Lakers’ practice at Southern Methodist University on Saturday, Redick mentioned that the team is currently waiting on MRI results for Reeves, who sustained the injury during last Thursday’s match against the Thunder. Redick noted that Reeves underwent a second MRI on Saturday after the team had arrived in Dallas the day before.
Redick stated, “Again, I don’t know where the chain of command is for imaging in Dallas, but they scanned the wrong area. So it’s not our side. We made it clear what to scan, and they scanned the wrong area.”
The Mavericks issued a statement, disputing Redick’s claims, asserting their medical team adhered to standard imaging procedures based on the available information. “There were no errors in the scan performed,” they stated.
When asked about his earlier remarks ahead of the Lakers’ upcoming home game against the Thunder, Redick expressed optimism. “Well, well, well, I think we finally got the image we needed. Obviously I’m very grateful, because it’s always been the case all season that the home team treats us well, the same way we treat the home team. And we’re going to move forward.”
Unfortunately, Reeves will miss the rest of the regular season due to his oblique injury, joining fellow star guard Luka Doncic, who is also sidelined with a Grade 2 left hamstring tear.
Marcus Smart Update
Marcus Smart missed his eighth consecutive game on Tuesday, but Redick reassured that the starting guard is expected to be back soon. “He’s progressing well,” he noted. “We thought he was going to be back. He didn’t have a setback last week. He was doing his job on the court and aiming to return. He had a great day [on Tuesday]. He’s likely to hit the court at some point this week.”
The Lakers are set to face the Warriors in San Francisco on Thursday, followed by a game against the Suns on Friday.
Doncic’s Treatment in Spain
With Luka Doncic in Spain receiving treatment for his hamstring issue, Redick highlighted Doncic’s commitment to returning to the game as quickly as possible during the Lakers’ playoff journey. “I won’t disclose how long he’s out there, but I think he’s fine,” he said. “In my chats with him, he’s eager to do everything he can. I know it’s tough for him not being on the court. It’s his happy place. He plays year-round, not just in international games. He enjoys being in the gym and perfecting his skills. Returning to the court is going to be a challenge for him.”
