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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 25: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 25, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers will be entering tonight’s pivotal playoff matchup against the Houston Rockets for Game 5 of their playoff series with more injuries than they’d like to be afflicting their roster at present. Dealing with major injury concerns that could potentially affect the outcome of tonight’s elimination came in dramatic fashion is certainly not what the Lakers had hoped for their current playoff run.
Los Angeles Lakers Give Injury Status Update On Austin Reaves
GettyLOS 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)
Despite the many setbacks injuries have caused for the Los Angeles Lakers this season as they’ve been plagued with some of their key contributors being sidelined, there is growing optimism surrounding Austin Reaves. Currently listed as questionable with a left oblique strain, multiple reports suggest that Reaves is trending towards a possible return for Game 5 tonight. He has already resumed on-court activities and participated in increased basketball work over the past several days, which is a good sign for a possible return in the Lakers’ matchup series against the Houston Rockets.
The return of Reaves would be one with massive returns for Los Angeles. During the regular season, he emerged as one of the team’s most dependable secondary scorers and playmakers as he averaged career-best numbers while taking on a larger offensive role. His ability to create shots off the dribble and relieve pressure on the court has been sorely missed during the Lakers’ playoff run.
Amanda Vining Amanda Vining is a career journalist with over 20 years of experience covering news for digital publications. More about Amanda Vining