Austin Reaves Says He Feels Ready for Possible Game 5 Return
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Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves said Tuesday he “feels good” and could be back in uniform for Game 5 against the Houston Rockets at Crypto.com Arena. The 27-year-old has missed the last two contests with a left oblique strain but took part in practice and will be a game-time decision, according to head coach JJ Redick.
Reaves was listed as questionable before Games 3 and 4 but was ultimately ruled out. Speaking after Tuesday’s workout, he noted that the team’s 3-1 series lead and the chance to close out at home add urgency to his comeback. “We’re in a good spot up 3-1 back at home. We’ve got a good opportunity tomorrow,” he said.
The guard explained that his status is being determined jointly by himself, Redick and the medical staff. “You have to be comfortable with your body and what you can do to help us be successful,” Reaves said of their conversations. “The main thing is getting me back out there as fast as I can without risking another injury.”
Reaves sustained the oblique injury roughly four weeks ago during a loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although he finished that game, he immediately sensed the problem was significant and called the timing “super frustrating” with the postseason approaching.
Watching from the sideline has been difficult, Reaves admitted. “I’ve been pretty miserable … just sitting over there with no hope that I can affect the game,” he said. Even so, he praised the Lakers’ intensity and teamwork during his absence, calling the group’s play “a lot of fun” to watch.
Reaves plans to assess how he feels Wednesday morning before a final decision is made on his availability for the potential close-out game.
Source: LakersNation.com
