Lakers vs. Jazz: Injury Updates on Austin Reaves, Lauri Markkanen
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the Utah Jazz on Thursday night in a significant Western Conference showdown. Currently, the Lakers hold an impressive record of 18 wins and 7 losses. They are coming off a victory against the Phoenix Suns, where Luka Doncic had a standout performance with 29 points and six assists, while LeBron James contributed 26 points and four assists.
In contrast, the Utah Jazz enters this matchup with a record of 10 wins and 15 losses. They recently secured a hard-fought overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks. Keyonte George led the Jazz with an impressive 37 points, supported by Lauri Markkanen, who added 33 points and grabbed 16 rebounds.
Lakers vs. Jazz: Injury Updates on Austin Reaves and Lauri Markkanen
Injuries may play a critical role in this game, as both teams are dealing with several key players sidelined. The Lakers have included four individuals in their injury report. Notably, Austin Reaves will miss his second consecutive game due to a left calf strain. He is expected to be out for at least a week.
With Reaves unavailable, players like Marcus Smart, Jake LaRavia, and Nick Smith Jr. might see increased playing time, especially since Gabe Vincent is listed as questionable with low back soreness.
- Austin Reaves: Out (left calf strain)
- Deandre Ayton: Out (left elbow soreness)
- Gabe Vincent: Questionable (low back soreness)
Additionally, Deandre Ayton will miss his third game of the season due to left elbow soreness. Jaxson Hayes is expected to start in his absence, while Maxi Kleber, who is probable with a lumbar muscle strain, could also see more action.
Utah Jazz Injury Report
The Jazz face their own challenges with injuries. Lauri Markkanen has been ruled out due to right groin injury management, marking his second absence of the season. His absence opens up opportunities for Jusuf Nurkic, who is off the injury list, and Kyle Filipowski, who may start in Markkanen’s place.
- Lauri Markkanen: Out (right groin injury management)
- Walker Kessler: Out (injury recovery)
- Georges Niang: Out (injury recovery)
Fans can catch the action live from Salt Lake City at 9:00 p.m. EST. This matchup promises to be crucial for both teams as they seek to solidify their standings in the Western Conference.
