The Los Angeles Lakers had an extremely disappointing playoff run, losing to the Timberwolves in five games despite having home-court advantage. They were overwhelmed physically throughout the series and looked hopeless on both ends of the floor.
One of the biggest disappointments for the Lakers through five games was Austin Reaves' performance. After a breakout campaign in the regular season, Reaves failed to make an impact in the playoffs, averaging 16.2 points and 3.6 assists in over 39 minutes per game, shooting 41.1% from the field and 31.9% from downtown. In the elimination game, he had six turnovers and only two assists, raising questions about his future with the team.
On Friday, Lakers fans received news that might explain Reaves' struggles. It was reported by the Los Angeles Times' Dan Woike and later confirmed by Lakers insider Trevor Lane that Reaves was playing through an unreported multi-week toe injury in the final two games of the series.
Rob Pelinka & JJ Redick Deserve Blame After Austin Reaves Injury News
This surprise news reveals massive mistakes by Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick.
The lack of depth, as a result of Pelinka's inability to add to the roster at the trade deadline after acquiring Luka Doncic, forced the team to play Reaves extended minutes. Not only did Reaves play over 40 minutes in Games 2 and 3, he didn't sit for a single second in the second half of Game 4, despite suffering from a toe injury.
Because of their lack of big men, the Lakers ask their perimeter players to play with a ton of effort and physicality. Having to play that way for such long minutes while nursing a toe injury clearly took a toll on Reaves.
That is why JJ Redick is not blameless here, either. Yes, having more competent depth pieces would have helped, but the first-time head coach should have still found ways to steal some minutes with Reaves on the bench. Sitting him more would have kept him fresher and potentially avoided the disastrous Game 4 and 5 performances by Reaves.
Hopefully, both Pelinka and Redick learn from their mistakes and have a better game plan for next season and the playoffs.