The last thing the Houston Rockets needed was for the Los Angeles Lakers to get a key reinforcement for Friday’s Game 3 action in Texas.
Luka Doncic might be getting shots up, but the videos surfacing on social media aren’t posing much of a threat. The injury report already confirmed that Doncic is out for the evening.
But the same can’t be said for Austin Reaves. As the veteran sharpshooter deals with an oblique strain, Reaves has been out as long as Doncic. He has yet to make his postseason debut.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 14: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers calls a play during the first half of a game against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
That could change on Friday night. According to the Lakers’ official injury report, Austin Reaves is listed as questionable. He has a 50% chance of playing.
The trailing Rockets could be in deep trouble if he gets the nod to go.
A Big Year For Reaves
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 14: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks onduring the first half of a game against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
Although Austin Reaves struggled to stay healthy throughout the 2025-2026 NBA season, he was playing his best ball when he was healthy and on the court.
In 51 games, Reaves shot 49.0% from the field, and hit on 36.0% of his shots from three. The veteran sharpshooter averages 23.3 points per game and dished out 5.5 assists per game.
Before he went down with a late December injury, Reaves was gaining serious early consideration for a potential first-time playoff bid. Those plans were derailed as he needed over one month to recover.
Reaves was a major contributor to the Lakers’ late-season rally. But once again, the star sharpshooter went out with what became a regular-season-ending setback on April 5.
The Rockets Are In A Rut
GettyMEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – MARCH 29: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on March 29, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Without Reaves and Doncic, the Rockets fell to 0-2 against the Lakers in round one. So far, it’s been the most shocking series results in the NBA.
There’s no telling if Houston will be able to get it together on Friday or not, but the return of Reaves would certainly cause a hit.
Game 3 is set to begin on Friday, April 24, with an 8 PM ET tip.
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