The injury outlook for Austin Reaves has taken a major turn in a positive direction as of today, with the Los Angeles Lakers finally getting their star guard back on the floor during their playoff series against the Houston Rockets. Following a 99-93 loss to the Rockets in Game 5, Los Angeles is anticipating the use of Reaves in the upcoming Game 6 of the series between the two storied teams.
Here’s an updated look at the player status of Austin Reaves as he rejoins the action on the court.
Current Injury Outlook For Austin Reaves Ahead of Game 6 Against Houston Rockets
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 29: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots the ball against Alperen Sengun #28 of the Houston Rockets in Game Five of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 29, 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)
Having been sidelined since April 2 following a Grade 2 oblique injury – a strain he suffered during play – in a game which also saw his teammate, Luka Doncic, go down with an injury, Reaves made his triumphant return on Wednesday April 29, 2026 for the fifth game in the Lakers’ playoff run against the Houston Rockets. For Los Angeles, having Reaves back on the court put pressure on Houston even though the Lakers still suffered a loss in the matchup.
Reaves ultimately missed out on several games prior to last night’s return, but that didn’t slow him down in his scoring potential against the Rockets. Despite his lengthy absence, Reaves didn’t disappoint in is Game 5 appearance.
How Austin Reaves Rehabbed His Oblique Injury During His Absence From the Los Angeles Lakers Active Playing Roster
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 29: Reed Sheppard #15 of the Houston Rockets handles the ball against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter in Game Five of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on April 29, 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)
The Los Angeles Lakers have remained cautious about returning many of their injured players to active status, including Austin Reaves. During his absence from the active playing lineup, Reaves gradually progressed through individual workouts, then advanced to 3-on-3 drills, before ultimately finally making it back to participating in full-contact 5-on-5 practices prior to his return to the court during a game last night.
Amanda Vining Amanda Vining is a career journalist with over 20 years of experience covering news for digital publications. More about Amanda Vining