The Los Angeles Lakers have been waiting for the spark that reignites their early-season fire, and it might arrive just in time. Star guard Austin Reaves, who has missed three straight games with a groin injury, is nearing his return. His status was upgraded to questionable ahead of Monday’s road matchup with the Charlotte Hornets, signaling that his comeback could be imminent.
The timing could not be better. The Lakers are still shaking off the sting of a 122 to 102 loss to the depleted Atlanta Hawks, a defeat that served as both a reminder and a warning. Even with their star power, lapses in focus and effort can quickly erase the momentum they’ve worked so hard to build.
Reaves injured his right groin during the first quarter of the Lakers’ win over the Miami Heat on November 2. An MRI revealed only a mild strain, and head coach JJ Redick confirmed that the pain has nearly subsided. The team expects him to return sometime during their five-game road trip, possibly as soon as Monday night.
Before the injury, Reaves had been sensational. He averaged 31.1 points, 9.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds through the first seven games, shooting nearly 49 percent from the field and leading the Lakers’ offense with confidence and precision. His absence has left a noticeable void in both playmaking and rhythm.
A Lesson in Humility Against the Hawks
Saturday’s game in Atlanta exposed some uncomfortable truths. The Hawks were missing Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard, yet still managed to run the Lakers off the floor. It wasn’t just the loss that hurt it was the way it happened.
“You just got to learn from it and move on,” said forward Jake LaRavia. “This isn’t our identity. We’ll bounce back next game ready to play.”
Coach Redick didn’t disagree. His postgame remarks focused on effort, defense, and attention to detail three things the Lakers lacked in Atlanta. The team’s off-ball defense broke down repeatedly, allowing easy cuts to the rim and uncontested shots from deep. Transition defense was even worse, as the Lakers were slow to recover and gave up too many fast-break points.
“Probably underestimated those guys,” admitted center Deandre Ayton. “We forgot this is still the NBA and those are still NBA players. They beat us in transition and played great defense. We weren’t ready for it, and JJ let us know.”
Turnovers also played a major role, with the Lakers committing twenty giveaways. Each one felt heavier as Atlanta capitalized with quick runs and relentless pace.
Redick’s Cooler Approach
Despite the poor performance, Redick’s demeanor after the loss was notably calm a contrast to the fiery reactions he displayed during his first year as coach. The message this time was about composure and accountability rather than frustration.
“A lot calmer,” said rookie Dalton Knecht when asked about his coach. “He knows we got hit early, hit back, but couldn’t keep it going. He told us to take the criticism, accept it, and use it to get better for the next one.”
At 7–3, the Lakers still hold a strong position in the Western Conference, but they understand how quickly good habits can slip away. The team knows that every missed rotation and every lazy pass can shift the balance of a game. With Reaves nearing his return, the Lakers are looking to reestablish the sharpness and energy that defined their first seven outings.
Eyes on Charlotte and a Chance to Reset
The Lakers’ next test comes in Charlotte against a Hornets squad without LaMelo Ball, who remains sidelined with a right ankle impingement. On paper, the matchup looks favorable. In reality, it’s a trap for any team that takes its opponent lightly—something the Lakers learned the hard way in Atlanta.
Reaves’ return could be the key to restoring balance. His ball-handling and ability to create under pressure bring calm to chaotic moments. More importantly, his chemistry with Luka Dončić gives the Lakers one of the league’s most dynamic offensive duos.
Redick has made it clear that accountability is the theme of this road trip. The loss to Atlanta was a wake-up call. Now, with Reaves ready to rejoin the fight, the Lakers have a chance to respond with urgency and purpose.
This is the moment where a good team decides whether it will become a great one.
