NBA Rumors: Austin Reaves Cleared to Play in Cleveland
Back on the Court
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has been cleared to play in Friday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources told ESPN's Dave McMenamin. Reaves has missed the past two games due to a hamstring injury.The second-year guard is averaging 7.6 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game this season. He has started 21 of the 33 games he has played in.
Injury Report
Reaves suffered the hamstring injury in the Lakers' loss to the Denver Nuggets on Jan. 25. He played 25 minutes in that game and finished with six points, four rebounds and three assists.The Lakers have gone 1-1 in Reaves' absence. They lost to the Phoenix Suns on Jan. 27 but beat the Sacramento Kings on Jan. 29.
Return to Action
Reaves' return is a boost for the Lakers, who are currently 23-26 and in ninth place in the Western Conference. The Lakers are 3.5 games behind the Clippers for the final play-in spot.Reaves is a valuable player for the Lakers because he can play both guard positions and is a good defender. He is also a good shooter, making 37.5% of his three-pointers this season.
