Reaves had the best season of his career before the injury, averaging 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in 51 games. His absence is a notable gap for a Lakers team trying to advance in the postseason without one of its top scorers.
The injury timeline traces back to April 2 against Oklahoma City, when the oblique issue was first diagnosed. After initial reporting suggested a four-to-six-week window, Reaves has remained on the sidelines, with practice sessions limited to non-contact work as the team monitors pain and movement.
In Game 1, Los Angeles leaned on LeBron James, Luke Kennard, and Deandre Ayton to carry the load. James finished with 19 points and 13 assists, Kennard posted a playoff career-high 27, and Ayton added 19 points and 11 rebounds, with Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart also contributing in double figures.
A faster recovery could open the door to a mid-series return, potentially as soon as Game 5 if progress continues. No official return date has been announced, but the prevailing view is that Reaves will continue rehab and pain management while the Lakers assess his functional movement and readiness.
Game 2 is scheduled for Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena, with LA aiming to extend its series lead while continuing to manage Reaves’ rehabilitation. If Reaves can return later in the postseason, his impact would provide a meaningful boost to a team already showing resilience without him.
