Lakers injury announcement reveals star played hurt in playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers enter the offseason with questions after a disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

On Friday, some notable news came out that revealed LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in Game 5, one that most likely would've prevented him from playing in Game 6.

Luka Doncic also suffered a back injury in Game 5 and left briefly, although some think he wasn't as injured as he made it seem. 

On top of that, Austin Reaves was reportedly playing with an injured big toe for the last few games, per Trevor Lane. 

"Can confirm that Austin Reaves was dealing with a left big toe sprain during the Playoffs. Was considered to be a 2-4 week injury but he gutted it out. I'm told Reaves was not walking on it on off days to try to get through the playoffs."

Reaves clearly didn't play as well as he had all season, so an injury coming to light is not all that surprising for the Lakers' third option. 

Lane also revealed the injury happened in Game 3, meaning Reaves played the final two games are far less than 100% as he nursed the injury. 

So, there were a number of unfortunate injury situations for the Lakers, and now they have a long offseason ahead of them to try and see how to fix the roster to maximize the remainder of LeBron James' career. 

MORE LAKERS NEWS:

• Bronny James may have leaked LeBron’s retirement plans
• Lakers reportedly have JJ Redick offseason verdict after early playoff exit
• Lakers get brutal news on LeBron James' contract situation
• Luka Doncic comments on potential offseason decision with Lakers
• Adidas takes stab at LeBron James with savage Anthony Edwards ad campaign