Austin Reaves Upgraded to Questionable for Lakers Game 3 vs. Rockets Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has been upgraded to questionable for Game 3 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, according to multiple reports. The update comes from Jovan Buha, who reported on social media that Reaves’ status has improved from doubtful to questionable ahead of the matchup scheduled for April 26, 2026. Reaves has been dealing with an injury that limited his availability in recent games, but the latest designation indicates he may be available to play in the upcoming contest. Associated Press coverage confirmed the status change, noting Reaves was listed as questionable for Game 3. The report included visual documentation of Reaves participating in recent team activities, including games against the Utah Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder earlier in April. The Lakers made the designation on their high-scoring guard Thursday while the team flew to Houston. Los Angeles has a surprising 2-0 series lead heading into Game 3 on Friday night despite playing without Luka Doncic and Reaves, its top two scorers. Reaves hasn’t played since he strained his oblique muscles and Doncic strained his hamstring in a game at Oklahoma City on April 2, but Reaves returned to on-court basketball activities over the past few days. Before the Lakers’ flight, coach JJ Redick said he had no update on the schedule for his injured starters’ return to play. Reaves averaged 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds during an impressive regular season for the Lakers, although he played in only 51 games due to two lengthy injury absences. In his fifth season with Los Angeles, the former undrafted free agent cemented his status as a prolific secondary scorer and dependable offensive facilitator while the Lakers won 53 games and the Pacific Division. But Reaves and NBA scoring champion Doncic were both injured during the Lakers’ blowout loss to the Thunder three weeks ago. Doncic is still out for Game 3, but Redick said earlier this week that the Slovenian superstar is expected to begin initial on-court operate soon. The Lakers haven’t publicly speculated on the date of either guard’s return. While Reaves’ potential return could provide offensive depth, the team continues to monitor his condition closely as they prepare for Game 3 at Toyota Center in Houston.
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