Lakers' Austin Reaves Exits Game with Back Injury

The star player left the game against the Thunder due to a back issue.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:11am

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A fractured, geometric painting in vibrant colors depicting a basketball player in motion, representing the Lakers' injury concerns.A cubist interpretation of a Lakers player's injury highlights the fragmented nature of the game and the team's ongoing health challenges.Oklahoma City Today

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves was forced to exit Thursday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to a back injury. Reaves was seen grabbing his back multiple times in the first quarter before heading to the locker room.

Why it matters

Reaves has been a key contributor for the Lakers this season, so any injury to the young star could significantly impact the team's playoff push. The Lakers are already dealing with several injuries, so Reaves' status will be closely monitored.

The details

Reaves sustained the back injury at some point during the first quarter of the Lakers' game against the Thunder. He was substituted out late in the period after being seen grabbing his back on multiple occasions. Reaves then went to the locker room, and his status for the remainder of the game is uncertain.

  • Reaves sustained the injury in the first quarter of the April 3, 2026 game against the Thunder.

The players

Austin Reaves

A guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who has been a key contributor for the team this season.

Los Angeles Lakers

An NBA team based in Los Angeles, California.

Oklahoma City Thunder

An NBA team based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

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What’s next

The Lakers will provide an update on Reaves' status after further evaluation.

The takeaway

Reaves' injury is a concerning development for the Lakers, who are already dealing with several health issues. The team will closely monitor his status as they push for a playoff spot.