The Los Angeles Lakers will be shorthanded heading into Thursday’s matchup against the Utah Jazz, with several key players dealing with injuries. According to the team’s latest report, Deandre Ayton (left elbow soreness) and Austin Reaves (left calf strain) have both been ruled out. Maxi Kleber (lumbar muscle strain) is listed as probable, while Gabe Vincent (low back soreness) is questionable.
Let’s start with Reaves, whose absence isn’t exactly a shock. He’s set to miss his second straight game with a calf strain, but the good news is this doesn’t appear to be a long-term issue.
Reaves was spotted getting shots up during Wednesday’s practice and looked to be moving well. If all continues to progress, he could be back in action as soon as Saturday.
Ayton’s situation is a bit murkier. This will be his first game missed due to the elbow soreness, and there’s no clear word yet on when the injury occurred or how long he might be sidelined.
What we do know is that his absence leaves a sizable hole in the frontcourt rotation. Expect Jaxson Hayes to step into the starting center role, with the Lakers likely leaning more heavily on their bench bigs to fill the gap.
That’s where Maxi Kleber’s status becomes even more important. After missing the last two games with a lower back strain, Kleber is trending in the right direction.
If he’s able to suit up, his minutes off the bench will be crucial, especially with Ayton unavailable. His ability to stretch the floor and provide some defensive versatility could help stabilize the Lakers’ second unit.
As for Gabe Vincent, his back soreness is a new development. He’s officially listed as questionable, and with back issues, the Lakers are expected to take a cautious approach.
If Vincent can’t go, look for Nick Smith Jr. to see some time at the backup point guard spot. There’s also a chance Adou Thiero could get a look off the bench, depending on how the rotation shakes out.
Beyond the injury report, it’s worth noting that Deandre Ayton has been making a strong impression off the court this season. Despite being sidelined for this game, Ayton continues to earn praise from within the organization for his presence and leadership. He was recently honored with the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for November, recognized for his contributions to hurricane relief efforts in the Caribbean.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick spoke highly of Ayton’s impact, both on and off the court.
“I think we were in Memphis at shootaround when I found out about the gift he made for the relief in the Bahamas,” Redick said. “He’s clearly got an amazing heart, and I think our guys have gotten to see him open up to the group.
It’s been really fun for everyone. And he’s been very consistent.
I’m happy that he was recognized by the NBA.”
Redick’s comments reflect what’s becoming increasingly clear - Ayton has not only fit in with the Lakers but has started to carve out a meaningful role in the locker room. While his on-court availability is now in question, his off-court impact is already being felt.
The Lakers will need to lean on that collective spirit as they head into Utah with a reshuffled lineup. With Ayton and Reaves out, and Vincent’s status up in the air, this game will test the team’s depth and resilience. But if there’s one thing this group has shown, it’s that they’re willing to step up when called upon - and Thursday night will be no exception.