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NBAInjury Update
Austin Reaves Eyes Game 3 Return, Could Play Game 4
TL;DR
Austin Reaves is aiming to return for Game 3 against the Houston Rockets after being upgraded to questionable. If he cannot play in Game 3, he is targeting a return for Game 4.
Key points
- Austin Reaves upgraded to questionable for Game 3
- Lakers lead series 2-0 against the Rockets
- Reaves aims to help Lakers with offensive creation
- Luka Doncic likely to miss the entire series
Austin ReavesLos Angeles LakersHouston RocketsLuka Doncic
Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves is reportedly going to do everything possible to play in Game 3 of the team’s series against the Houston Rockets.
Reaves was upgraded to question for Game 3, the first time that he has not been ruled out since suffering his oblique injury.
Now, with the Lakers up 2-0 in the series and a need for offensive creation to close out the series, Reaves is eying an immediate return to help the Lakers, especially with Luka Doncic seeming ready to miss the whole series.
“Austin Reaves is trying to play in Game 3 tonight, if not Game 3 then Game 4,” ESPN’s Shams Charania said.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and guard Austin Reaves (15) high five forward Jake LaRavia (12) in the first half of game two of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Additionally, on ESPN, reporter Tim Bontemps added that “Austin Reaves is gonna play Friday, barring some setback.”
Reaves will be warming up as if he is going to play, following his usual routine, and if he responds well, he will seemingly play for the Lakers.
He has missed just three weeks for an injury that is supposed to rule someone out for at least four weeks. His return is certainly being rushed, but with the Lakers in a real playoff push, the guard is willing to push himself for the team and organization.
Q&A
What is Austin Reaves' injury status for Game 3 against the Rockets?
Austin Reaves has been upgraded to questionable for Game 3, indicating a possibility of his return.
How does Austin Reaves' potential return impact the Lakers' playoff series?
Reaves' return could provide much-needed offensive support for the Lakers, who are currently leading the series 2-0.
When is Austin Reaves expected to play if not in Game 3?
If Austin Reaves does not play in Game 3, he is eyeing a return for Game 4.
