The Los Angeles Lakers are locked in for Game 5 vs the Houston Rockets in the NBA Playoffs’ first round. The team has been playing without Luka Doncic amd Austin Reaves. JJ Redick’s side leads the series 3-1 and is set to end it with a win in the upcoming game.
To do so, the team would need a healthy squad, and there has been some hopeful news for guard Reaves as they face the Rockets on Wednesday. An NBA insider has dropped a massive update on the star player, and here is all you need to know.
Lakers hopeful on Austin Reaves’ return for Game 5 vs Rockets in NBA Playoffs
Reaves is optimistic about returning to the court for Game 5 of the team's first-round playoff series, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania. The senior journalist reported:
“Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves is optimistic to return to action in Game 5 against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night after missing about four weeks with a Grade 2 oblique strain, sources tell ESPN.”
Shams added:
“Reaves will be a game-time decision for the third consecutive contest.”
Reaves has missed nearly four weeks with a Grade 2 oblique strain sustained in early April. He has been listed as a game-time decision for the third consecutive game, with the Lakers proceeding cautiously after the significant injury.
The four-to-six-week recovery timeline is nearing its end, and Reaves has ramped up his activity, including on-court work in recent days. Reaves' potential return would provide a major boost to the Lakers, who lead the series 3-1 but dropped Game 4 on the road.
The 6-foot-5 guard brings valuable spacing, shot creation off the dribble, and playoff experience to a backcourt that has been without him and Doncic (hamstring) throughout the postseason. His addition could help stabilize the offense alongside LeBron James as Los Angeles looks to close out the young Rockets team and advance. The Lakers will monitor Reaves closely in the coming 24-48 hours, with final availability likely determined closer to tip-off.
ALSO READ: Dallas Mavericks star Cooper Flag wins 2025-26 NBA Rookie of the Year award; creates history to join Michael Jordan