Report: Austin Reaves misses Lakers practice ahead of Suns matchup

Austin Reaves sat out the Los Angeles Lakers’ practice Saturday as he continues to deal with a bruised heel ahead of Sunday’s game against the Phoenix Suns.

JJ Redick attributed Reaves’ absence to the injury. Redick said the Lakers would provide his designation for the Phoenix game on their injury report later Saturday.

JJ Redick said that Reaves did not participate in practice because of his heel bruise and his status for Sunday in PHX will be revealed on the injury report later today. https://t.co/LtPw66CEPJ

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 14, 2026

That leaves Reaves’ availability unresolved. The missed workout is the latest development in his recovery, but it does not by itself establish that he will sit out Sunday.

Reaves was one of three Lakers guards injured during Wednesday’s win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Los Angeles now has a more encouraging practice update on Collin Sexton, even as it waits to determine whether Reaves can play.

Austin Reaves misses practice after Friday’s heel update

Reaves’ initial X-rays were negative and that the guard did not need additional imaging. Redick characterized the injury as day-to-day.

“I would assume a day-to-day injury is minor,” Redick said.

The backcourt injuries had an immediate effect on the Lakers’ rotation in Milwaukee. Redick explained afterward that Sexton’s exit helped prompt him to put Luka Doncic back into the game, with Reaves already unavailable.

Doncic subsequently hurt his ankle.

Collin Sexton returns to full practice

Sexton took part without restrictions Saturday, Redick said His progress gives the Lakers a positive development involving another guard who could help handle the ball if Reaves cannot play.

JJ Redick said that Collin Sexton was a full participant in practice on Saturday.

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 14, 2026

Sextons says that he intends to use protective goggles against Phoenix. He said swelling had prevented him from opening his eye Friday, but the condition had improved Saturday.

Collin Sexton says that the Milwaukee game was the 11th time in his 9-year pro career where he’s required stitches on his face after a game. He said his eye was swollen shut Friday but was much better today and he’ll wear protective eye goggles in PHX on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/ceTOkDXruG

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 14, 2026

The guard needed stitches following the Milwaukee game. His practice participation does not establish an official game designation.

Where the Lakers’ backcourt stands

Redick expects Doncic to play against Phoenix, while Quentin Grimes participated in that day’s stay-ready games.