JJ Redick adjusts Lakers rotation after Austin Reaves injury

JJ Redick is navigating his first weeks as Lakers head coach with a solid 17-7 record, but calm ended with Austin Reaves’ injury. The guard suffered a left calf strain and will be reevaluated in one week, ruling him out against the Suns and Jazz.

Reaves’ absence forces JJ Redick to shuffle pieces in a rotation already tested earlier by LeBron James’ injury.

Reaves, a key piece

Austin Reaves has been one of the team’s offensive engines, averaging 27.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists. His ability to carry the offense without James or Luka Doncic made him indispensable. In recent games, Reaves posted 39 points and nearly 10 assists, proving he can sustain the team. That’s why JJ Redick now scrambles to replace him.

JJ Redick on fixing the Lakers’ defensive issues:

“We’re looking at everything. We’ve got to be serious about where we are right now.“

Would that include Jarred Vanderbilt back in the rotation?

“If this continues, he’ll definitely get his opportunities.” pic.twitter.com/vjAkXYD8Zm

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 12, 2025

The injury, however, opens the door to changes that could reshape both offense and defense. Analysts argue this might not be negative, since it gives JJ Redick the chance to test new options.

Defense under scrutiny

JJ Redick admitted the Lakers haven’t stabilized their defense, with a 117.7 rating placing them among the league’s worst. They’ve held only three opponents under 110 points, a weakness that limits championship hopes.

In this scenario, Jarred Vanderbilt emerges as an option. His offense is limited, but his defensive effort was crucial in the 2023 Conference Finals run.

Forced decisions

JJ Redick made clear that, with Austin Reaves sidelined, Vanderbilt could see more minutes. “If this continues, he’ll get his opportunities,” said the coach, aware of the need to strengthen defense. Another alternative is Marcus Smart, who could step in as starting guard to balance the rotation.

As Essentiallysports highlighted, JJ Redick ’s dilemma reflects the tension between keeping offensive firepower and regaining defensive solidity, a balance that will define the Lakers’ path until Reaves returns.

A deeper challenge

Austin Reaves represents both the present and future of the franchise, while JJ Redick works to establish himself as a strategist. How the team handles this stretch without its star guard will determine if the Lakers remain serious contenders in the West.