The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping Austin Reaves' return from a Grade 2 left oblique strain will provide an answer to their biggest problem, as he returns from a month-plus absence due to a calf strain. Reaves's impact on the team's offense was immediately felt immediately, as both Reaves and fellow star guard Luka Doncic were sidelined due to injuries. The Lakers' competitive spirit remained strong during their absence, despite their 3-2 record in the regular season and 3-1 lead in their first-round playoff series against the Rockets. Reves' return will help the team find more answers to problems defenses try to give them. The team's offensive efficiency and production gradually dipped throughout the series, including a slightly-above-average offensive rating (108.8) in the Game 3 win and a series-worst 102.4 in Game 4.