Home / Sports / Reaves Starts: Lakers Eye Series Clinch Without Doncic
Reaves Starts: Lakers Eye Series Clinch Without Doncic
2 May
Summary
- Austin Reaves starts Game 6 for the Lakers against the Rockets.
- Luka Doncic remains out with a hamstring strain for Game 6.
- Kevin Durant is also sidelined for the Rockets with an ankle injury.
The Los Angeles Lakers are placing Austin Reaves back into their starting lineup for Game 6 against the Houston Rockets, with the intention of clinching the first-round series. This adjustment is significant as Luka Doncic remains unavailable due to a left hamstring strain. Reaves, who returned in Game 5 after an oblique injury, will start alongside LeBron James and others, providing an additional ball-handler and scorer.
This decision indicates a shift from the strategy employed during Reaves' absence, where Luke Kennard started to leverage his shooting. With Reaves back, coach JJ Redick is opting for a more familiar offensive creator in a game that could end the series. Despite an inefficient shooting performance in his Game 5 return, Reaves' ability to play without setbacks is crucial, especially as the Rockets have increased the physicality.
The Lakers face the challenge of closing out the series without Doncic, their primary shot creator. Reaves' starting role aims to stabilize their half-court offense and alleviate pressure on James and Marcus Smart. Beyond this game, Doncic's timeline is concerning, with expectations he could miss the second round if the Lakers advance, meaning they may have to navigate future games without him.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets are also contending with a significant absence, as Kevin Durant has been ruled out for Game 6 due to an ankle injury. Durant has missed the last three games after sustaining a bone bruise in his left ankle during Game 2.
