Lakers' Austin Reaves Out with Muscle Injury for Playoffs

Timing of guard's return remains uncertain as Lakers face Rockets in first round

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:25pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the Lakers' purple and gold colors, conveying the disruption caused by Reaves' injury.The Lakers' playoff hopes face a new challenge as they navigate the first round without key guard Austin Reaves.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Lakers will be without starting guard Austin Reaves for the start of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets due to a muscle injury. The timeline for Reaves' return is unclear, leaving the Lakers to potentially navigate the early postseason without one of their key players.

Why it matters

Reaves has been a valuable contributor for the Lakers this season, providing scoring, playmaking, and perimeter defense. His absence could be a significant blow to the team's chances of advancing deep into the playoffs, especially against a tough Rockets squad.

The details

The nature and severity of Reaves' muscle injury have not been disclosed, making it difficult to predict when he might be able to return to the lineup. The Lakers will have to adjust their rotations and game plan without the second-year guard, who has averaged 13.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this season.

  • Reaves suffered the injury during the Lakers' final regular-season game on April 12, 2026.
  • The Lakers' first-round playoff series against the Rockets is scheduled to begin on April 16, 2026.

The players

Austin Reaves

A 24-year-old starting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who has emerged as a key contributor in his second NBA season.

Los Angeles Lakers

An NBA franchise based in Los Angeles, California, that has won a record 17 championships and is one of the league's most successful and iconic teams.

Houston Rockets

An NBA franchise based in Houston, Texas, that has won two NBA championships and is making its first playoff appearance in several years.

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What they’re saying

“Losing Austin is a big blow, but we have a deep team and guys who are ready to step up. We'll have to find a way to win without him, at least to start the playoffs.”

— LeBron James, Lakers Forward

What’s next

The Lakers will provide updates on Reaves' recovery and status leading up to the start of the playoff series against the Rockets. If Reaves is unable to return for the early games, the Lakers will need to rely more heavily on other guards like Dennis Schröder and Lonnie Walker IV to fill the void.

The takeaway

The Lakers' playoff hopes have taken a hit with the loss of Austin Reaves, a key two-way player who has been instrumental to their success this season. The team's depth and ability to adjust their rotations will be tested as they try to advance without one of their starters, underscoring the importance of injury management in the postseason.