Reaves' return to starting lineup fuels Lakers closeout win
Austin Reaves returned to the starting lineup for the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, helping secure a 98-78 closeout victory. After missing the first five games of the series due to an oblique injury, Reaves contributed 15 points and matched his career-high with three blocks. His return provided a significant boost to the Lakers' offense and defense as they advanced in the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
- ▪Austin Reaves returned from a four-week oblique injury that occurred on April 2 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
- ▪Reaves came off the bench in Game 5, scoring 4-of-16 from the field, before being reinstated as a starter for Game 6.
- ▪He recorded 15 points, seven field goals in the paint, and matched his career-high with three blocks in the series-clinching win.
- ▪The Lakers held the Rockets to a season-low point total in the 98-78 Game 6 victory.
- ▪Luka Doncic missed the playoffs due to a hamstring strain, leaving Reaves as a key contributor upon his return.
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