JJ Redick put Luka Doncic back in late against Milwaukee after Collin Sexton left with a cut above his eye, leaving the Lakers short on ball-handlers with Austin Reaves already out. Doncic then injured his right ankle, raising fresh questions about the team’s backcourt health.

By the Numbers
  • Los Angeles beat Milwaukee, 123-112.
  • The Lakers led by 24 when Redick made his late substitutions.
  • Los Angeles has won 7 straight games.
  • The Lakers next play Sunday against Phoenix.
Yes, But

Redick said he wanted a lead of at least 20 points before handing the game to deep reserves, but Sexton’s exit also changed who was available to close. Doncic said he was optimistic about his ankle, and Redick described it as a minor tweak; neither comment confirms a return timeline. Reaves’ initial X-rays were negative, with further imaging planned.

State of Play
  • Reaves left in the third quarter with a heel injury.
  • Sexton exited in the fourth quarter after colliding with Ryan Rollins and needing stitches.
  • Doncic hurt his right ankle with 4:25 remaining.
What’s Next

The Lakers have three days before facing the Suns, when they’ll need to assess which guards are available.

Bottom Line

Redick’s decision was shaped by a depleted backcourt, not just the score. The win extended the streak, but the Lakers’ next challenge is managing the health of the guards who keep their offense moving.