Lakers Fully Healthy as Second Half Begins

JJ Redick, Austin Reaves discuss importance of late-season push with key players returning

Mar. 1, 2026 at 8:39am

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The Los Angeles Lakers are finally healthy as they return from the All-Star break, with Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves all expected to play in Friday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers. Head coach JJ Redick emphasized the need for a strong second-half sprint, while Reaves noted the team has maintained a good record despite the injury issues they've faced this season.

Why it matters

The Lakers have dealt with significant injuries to key players for much of the season, limiting the time their top trio of Doncic, James, and Reaves have played together. With the team now fully healthy, they'll look to make a late-season push up the standings in the competitive Western Conference.

The details

The Lakers' injury report is completely clear heading into the second half of the season. Doncic, James, and Reaves have played in just 10 games together out of a possible 54 so far this year due to various injuries. Redick stressed the importance of a sprint to the finish, while Reaves said the team has done a good job maintaining a solid record despite the health issues.

  • The Lakers return to action on Friday, February 20, 2026 against the Los Angeles Clippers.
  • Following Friday's game, the Lakers will host the Celtics and Magic at home before a brief two-game road trip.

The players

JJ Redick

Head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Austin Reaves

Lakers player who is no longer on a minutes restriction after recovering from injury.

Luka Doncic

Lakers player who has dealt with injuries this season.

LeBron James

Lakers player who has dealt with injuries this season.

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What they’re saying

“It's just the situation we're in. We're not the only team that has had a bunch of health issues throughout the season and had to manage that, but my message to the players this morning was that this is going to be a sprint for these last 28 games.”

— JJ Redick, Head Coach

“You can tell throughout the season, even with the unfortunate injuries, we've done a good job maintaining it. We're on pace for a good record and getting healthy is going to help that.”

— Austin Reaves, Lakers Player

What’s next

Following Friday's game against the Clippers, the Lakers will host the Celtics and Magic at home before a brief two-game road trip against some of their Pacific Division rivals.

The takeaway

The Lakers' ability to get and stay healthy down the stretch will be crucial as they look to make a late-season push up the standings in the Western Conference. With their top trio of Doncic, James, and Reaves finally able to play together, the Lakers have a chance to capitalize on their improved health and make a strong playoff run.