The Dallas Mavericks have confirmed that their medical imaging of Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves showed no errors. This statement comes in response to comments made by Lakers coach JJ Redick regarding Reaves’ recent MRI for an oblique injury.
Austin Reaves’ Injury Details
Austin Reaves sustained a Grade 2 left oblique injury during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This incident occurred last Thursday, resulting in his exit from the game during the third quarter. Reaves was visibly in discomfort before leaving the match.
Medical Imaging Controversy
Following the injury, the Lakers requested the Mavericks’ medical team to conduct imaging on Reaves. Coach JJ Redick claimed that the Mavericks scanned the “wrong area.” He expressed uncertainty about the imaging process, stating, “I don’t know where the chain of command lies with Dallas imaging.”
However, the Mavericks defended their medical protocols. In an official statement, they asserted, “Our medical team followed standard imaging protocols based on the information provided at the time. There was no error in the scan performed.”
Timeline and Recovery
Reaves’ recovery timeline is projected to span four to six weeks, as reported by The Athletic’s Dan Woike. This injury leaves an impact on the Lakers’ playoff positioning.
Related Player Injuries
Simultaneously, the Lakers experienced another setback as star player Luka Dončić suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain in the same game against the Thunder. Dončić has since traveled to Spain for treatment, aiming to return for the postseason.
Current Standings
As the regular season nears its end, the Lakers are currently positioned fourth in the Western Conference. In their recent matchup, the Mavericks defeated the Lakers 134-128, breaking a 14-game home losing streak.
Rookie forward Cooper Flagg stood out in the game, scoring an impressive 45 points, along with eight rebounds and nine assists, contributing significantly to the Mavericks’ success.
