Austin Reaves Injury Update: Will Lakers Star Play Tonight vs. Rockets?
The Los Angeles Lakers are one win away from ending this first-round series, and they’ve done it the hard way. Even without Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic, LA has built a 3-0 lead over the Houston Rockets behind LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and a locked-in supporting cast. Now, with Game 4 set for Sunday, we’re all looking at whether Reaves can finally return.
Reaves has missed action since April 2 after suffering a grade 2 left oblique strain in a blowout loss to Oklahoma City. The original recovery window was four to six weeks, so any return right now would be ahead of schedule. Lakers coach JJ Redick recently confirmed that the 27-year-old had progressed through rehab, including live sessions, which usually signals the final step before clearance.
That brings us to tonight. Per the Lakers’ April 25 injury report, Reaves is officially listed as questionable and will be a game-time call for Game 4 against Houston. Luka Doncic has already been ruled out, making Reaves the key name to watch.
Austin Reaves is "QUESTIONABLE" for Game 4 in Houston. The Lakers lead the series 3-0. pic.twitter.com/VAvfePfHnP
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) April 25, 2026
Still, with LA holding a 3-0 edge and NBA teams historically 159-0 after taking that lead, there is no pressure to rush him back.
JJ Redick Shares Key Austin Reaves Return Update Before Game 4
Reaves is getting closer, but the Lakers are still playing it smart. The guard has been out since April 2 with a left oblique strain suffered against Oklahoma City. Even without him, Los Angeles has kept its playoff run alive.
JJ Redick shared a positive update, saying Reaves has advanced into light on-court work and shooting drills during practice. That’s a solid sign, but oblique injuries can be tricky, especially for guards who rely on quick turns and body control.
On a conference call with reporters, Lakers coach JJ Redick says Austin Reaves is going to get up shots this afternoon at the arena. The Lakers will update Reaves’ status for Game 4 at 5 p.m.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 25, 2026
Game 4 status is still up in the air. The Lakers plan to reevaluate Austin Reaves closer to tip-off while tracking how he responds each day. That said, progress is real, but no one in LA wants to rush this return.
Austin Reaves Injury Update: Will Lakers Star Play Tonight vs. Rockets?
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