Austin Reaves has been cleared to play for Lakers in Game 5

The Los Angeles Lakers weren't able to close out the Houston Rockets in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday, but they will return home for Game 5 on Wednesday with another chance to advance to the next round. They will also get a nice shot in the arm once the contest starts.

Rising star guard Austin Reaves, who suffered an oblique strain during an April 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and has been out of action since, has reportedly been cleared to play in Game 5. He had been listed as questionable for Game 3 and Game 4, but he was ruled out prior to the opening tip both times.

Reaves' return will take plenty of pressure off LeBron James, who shot just 2-of-9 from the field in Game 4 and had eight turnovers in both of the last two contests. His ability to attack the rim off the dribble, bring the ball upcourt and set up teammates will also diversify an L.A. offense that has failed to score more than 107 points in regulation during any game so far in this series.

The 27-year-old averaged 23.3 points and 5.5 assists a game while shooting 49% from the field and 36% from 3-point range during the regular season.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Austin Reaves has been cleared to play for Lakers in Game 5