Lakers Get HUGE News On Injury Front

April 23, 2026


 The Houston Rockets already have their hands full with the Los Angeles Lakers. Down 2-0 in the first-round series, 40-year-old LeBron James is playing like 30-year-old 'Bron, and leading the Lakers in the absense of his two superstar teammates. But imagine if Austin Reaves and/or Luka Doncic return to the lineup as well.

Both Doncic and Reaves went down to injuries with a four-to-six week timetable, just three weeks ago. So for all intents and purposes, their returns weren't expected until the very end of the first round, if at all.

But the Purple & Gold got a huge update on the injury front late Thursday afternoon, as it was announced that Reaves had been upgraded for Friday's Game 3 to 'Questionable.' Not even 'doubtful', but 'questionable.' With that designation, there's a realistic chance he could suit up Friday night.  

Reaves suffered a Grade 2 left oblique strain on April 2. He's only halfway through the long end of his timeline, given back then of six weeks.

Oblique strains, however, are a tricky business. Coming back too soon could easily lead to a re-aggravation and set him back for a lot longer. With a 2-0 lead in the series, it's reasonable to ask if the Lakers should not push it, and give Reaves another couple of days, to perhaps consider a Game 4 return, which is on Sunday.

Reaves averaged 23.3 points per game this season, and is headed to free agency after the year, with a massive extension awaiting him.

As for Doncic, he's not as far along as Reaves, but he also had a noteworthy day, as he was seen on the court getting up some shots after Lakers practice. He's still not close, but it's the first time he's been back on the practice court since his Grade 2 hamstring strain on April 2nd.

Photo: © Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

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