Garion Thorne provides an update on Lakers PG/SG Austin Reaves (oblique) before tonight’s Game 5 vs. the Rockets.
Published Apr 29, 2026 1:12 PM EDT
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 12: Marcus Smart #36, Austin Reaves #15 and Luke Kennard #10 of the Los Angeles Lakers watch from the bench during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena on April 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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For the first time since April 2, it appears that Austin Reaves will suit up for the Lakers.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, “all signs point to [Reaves] playing tonight unless there is some setback.” Officially, Reaves is still listed as questionable for tonight’s Game 5 with an oblique issue.
While Reaves would almost assuredly be limited in some capacity, his presence would be a sight for sore eyes for Lakers’ fans, LeBron James and J.J. Redick. In 51 games during the regular season, Reaves averaged a career-high 23.3 points per contest with 5.5 assists and 1.1 steals. Obviously, Reaves will be asked to take on the role of Los Angeles’ second-best scorer, as Luka Doncic (hamstring) remains sidelined. With both Reaves and James on the floor together in 2025-26, the Lakers posted a 119.2 offensive rating and outscored opponents by 5.2 points per 100 possessions.
Los Angeles can wrap up this series with a win tonight. They are 4.5-point home favorites on the DraftKings Sportsbook.
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