Austin Reaves optimistic about Lakers return for Game 5 against Rockets

10 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Apr 28

Reaves, 27, has missed nine games since suffering a Grade 2 oblique strain on April 2 but has progressed to group scrimmages without setbacks and could return Wednesday at Crypto.com Arena.
His comeback would boost a Lakers offense averaging just 110.1 points per 100 possessions in the playoffs, ranking 11th among 16 teams, as they lead the series 3-1 over Houston.
Reaves' return would come ahead of the initial four-to-six-week recovery timeline, while the Lakers have coped with absences by relying on LeBron James and strong defense against a Rockets team missing Kevin Durant.

Could rushing Austin Reaves back from injury ultimately sabotage the Lakers' entire playoff run?

Is Reaves' return enough to fix the Lakers' offense without leading scorer Luka Dončić?

What are the long-term health risks of Reaves returning so early from his oblique strain?

How will coach JJ Redick reintegrate Reaves without disrupting the team's defensive rhythm?

In a series defined by injuries, which team's supporting cast will be the true deciding factor?

Has LeBron James's heavy workload made him vulnerable as this grueling playoff series continues?