JJ Redick and the Los Angeles Lakers’ season took a turn for the worse over the past few days. This is after both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves suffered significant injuries, putting their respective seasons in serious jeopardy .
The Lakers are in action on Sunday in a road game against the Dallas Mavericks. They are still fighting to secure the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference as they look to contend for another championship this season.
L.A.’s title hopes took two massive blows, however, after they lost both Doncic and Reaves in the span of two days. Doncic is dealing with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, while Reaves has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 oblique injury.
Both players are set to miss the rest of the regular season, as well as the start of the NBA playoffs.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Redick, however, has refused to waive the white flag on his two star guards. The second-year Lakers coach spoke to reports on Sunday ahead of their game against the Mavericks, and Redick had a defiant message on Doncic and Reaves.
“Both those guys are going to try to come back,” Redick declared. “So it’s our job to extend the season so that they can come back.”
Redick did not provide a firm timetable for Doncic or Reaves’ return to action. However, he is adamant that both players will do what they can to try to come back this season.
While some fans have welcomed this development, more than a few others were not pleased with what Redick had to say. The Lakers coach is now facing some serious backlash over his comments.
“So JJ is waiting on Luka and Reaves return? Damn he must be fired,” a comment on X read.
“why would you risk long erm injury even if the team survived without them? reckless org, another said.
“I don’t think that’s a wise decision. Let’s hope they don’t seriously aggravate their injuries,” a user wrote.
“Trying to destroy Luka’s career,” a reaction read.
“JJ I get it but you a 100% psycho for this!” said another.
“please don’t do this bruh,” pleaded a supporter.
There are few more passionate fans in the NBA than Lakers supporters. However, even the most faithful loyalists are well aware of the inherent risk of bringing both Doncic and Reaves back too soon amid their respective injuries.
Related: Anthony Davis Admits Mistake After Lakers Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
