Austin Reaves Questionable for Lakers' Game 3 vs Rockets

Austin Reaves, a key guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, has been upgraded to questionable for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets. This designation was made Thursday as the team traveled to Houston.

The Lakers hold a surprising 2-0 series lead heading into Game 3 on Friday night. This advantage was achieved despite playing without their top two scorers, Reaves and Luka Doncic, who have both been sidelined with injuries.

Reaves has not played since straining his oblique muscles on April 2, but he has recently returned to on-court basketball activities. Coach JJ Redick provided no update on the exact return schedule for his injured starters before the team's flight.

Doncic is also still out for Game 3, though he is expected to begin initial on-court work soon. The Lakers have not publicly speculated on the return date for either guard.

Despite these significant absences, the Lakers have regrouped impressively. After a three-game losing streak following the injuries, they have since won five consecutive games. This includes their stunning victories in the first two games of the series at home against the Houston Rockets, who were considered strong favorites.

Other players, such as Luke Kennard and Marcus Smart, have stepped up significantly. Kennard scored 27 points in Game 1 and 23 in Game 2, while Smart contributed 25 points and five 3-pointers in Game 2, aiding in the defensive effort against Kevin Durant.

Reaves is eligible for a new contract this summer if he declines his option for next season, but both he and team officials expect him to remain with the Lakers.