The Los Angeles Lakers received a major boost in Game 5 when Austin Reaves returned from injury, and all signs point to him being available for the crucial Game 6 against the Houston Rockets.

Reaves made his postseason debut on Wednesday, April 29, coming off the bench to deliver 22 points and six assists. His return marked the end of a nine-game absence due to a left oblique muscle strain—a layoff that clearly left him eager to get back on the court.

Despite the Lakers' 99-93 loss to the Rockets in Game 5, Reaves shared how meaningful it was to be back in action. "As I ran out tonight, for the first time in a long time, I got a really good chills feeling with the atmosphere, the crowd," he said. "When something you love is taken away from you for four weeks with an injury and then you get thrown in the fire in a game like this—I could say I wouldn't want it any other way, but I kind of do. It was a lot of fun."

The crowd gave Reaves a standing ovation when he checked in during the first quarter, a testament to how much his presence means to the team and its fans. With the Lakers now facing pressure after dropping Game 5, the question isn't just whether Reaves will play—it's whether he can help prevent a blown 3-0 series lead.

As of Thursday, April 30, Reaves was not listed on the team's injury report, strongly suggesting he'll be on the floor for Game 6. However, it remains to be seen whether he'll reclaim a spot in the starting lineup or continue providing a spark off the bench.

The Lakers now head to Houston for Game 6 on Friday, May 1, with tip-off set for 6:30 p.m. PT (9:30 p.m. ET) on Prime. Whether you're gearing up in your favorite Lakers jersey or just tuning in for the drama, this is a game you won't want to miss.