Are Lakers’ Austin Reaves, Luka Doncic returning from injury to try to sweep Rockets?

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Are Lakers’ Austin Reaves, Luka Doncic returning from injury to try to sweep Rockets?

Originally posted on NBA on ClutchPoints
By Erik Slater, ClutchPoints | Last updated Apr 26, 2026 10:50 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers will attempt to complete a shocking first-round sweep of the Houston Rockets on Sunday. Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic remain on the Lakers’ injury report for Game 4.

Doncic was ruled out as he continues to rehab a left hamstring strain. However, Reaves is questionable after missing the first three games of the series due to a muscle strain in his left oblique.

The Lakers listed Reaves as questionable for Game 3 before ruling him out. JJ Redick told reporters on Saturday that Reaves “was going to get shots up” at the arena.

The 27-year-old returning for Game 4 would offer a significant boost for a Los Angeles offense that has leaned heavily on a 41-year-old LeBron James during the series.

Austin Reaves injury status vs. Rockets

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Reaves has been an integral part of the Lakers’ success this season, averaging a career-high 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.5 assists on .490/.360/.871 shooting splits across 51 appearances. Los Angeles outscored opponents by 5.0 points more per 100 possessions with him on the court vs. off, per CleaningTheGlass.

Still, the Lakers have to feel good about their chances of closing out the series regardless of whether Reaves returns. No NBA team has ever come back to win a series after trailing 0-3.

Luke Kennard has stepped up in Reaves’ absence, averaging 21.3 points and 3.7 assists while shooting 55.3 percent from the field and 52.9 percent from three. Marcus Smart has also played an integral role, averaging 20.3 points and 8.3 assists while shooting 52.9 percent from the field and 50.0 percent from three.

This article first appeared on NBA on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: