Key Highlights
- Austin Reaves scored 51 points in his first game without Luka Doncic.
- The Lakers were without five players when Reaves performed exceptionally well.
- Reaves set a new career-high in scoring and proved he can be a superstar as the primary option.
- He made 12 of his 22 field goal attempts and went 21 out of 22 from the free throw line.
The Unpredictable Absence of Luka Doncic
Austin Reaves’ first game without Luka Doncic was a resounding success, as he scored an impressive 51 points in just 39 minutes against the Kings. This performance not only highlighted his potential but also underscored the importance of having a versatile player like Reaves step up when key players are sidelined.
Reaves has been averaging 25.5 points and 10.0 assists as Luka Doncic’s sidekick, but in this game, he took on a more prominent role. His ability to take over the offense and dominate scoring was evident from his shooting accuracy, making 12 out of his 22 field goal attempts and going an impressive 21 out of 22 from the free throw line.
Impact on Lakers’ Performance
The absence of Luka Doncic and LeBron James significantly impacted the Lakers’ lineup. Head coach JJ Redick was forced to play with just eight players before Gabe Vincent’s injury, making it necessary to turn to Reaves as the primary option. The 6’5 guard did not disappoint, leading his team by outscoring the Kings by 22 points during his playing time in Sacramento.
Reaves’ performance was a testament to his value and potential within the Lakers’ lineup.
His ability to create off the dribble and get to the foul line showcased his versatility as a player. Fans were not surprised by this performance, given that Reaves had already demonstrated his capability during previous games when Doncic and LeBron were out.
Historical Context of Reaves’ Performance
This was not the first time Reaves stepped up in Doncic’s absence. Last season, he scored 45 points against the Pacers, who eventually won the Eastern Conference championship. These performances have reinforced the belief among fans that Reaves can be a valuable asset to the Lakers.
Reaves is currently in the final year of his contract and has no plans to extend it before reaching free agency in 2026.
While he wants to remain with the Lakers, there are expectations that he will command a significant salary once he becomes an unrestricted free agent. His recent performance supports these expectations and highlights why the Lakers need him to continue performing at this level.
Future Implications for the Lakers
The Lakers’ success in Reaves’ absence has shown the importance of having versatile players who can step up when needed. With Doncic and LeBron James expected to miss more games, it is crucial that the Lakers have reliable options like Reaves to rely on.
Reaves’ consistent performances have not gone unnoticed by fans and team officials alike. His ability to score efficiently and contribute in multiple ways will be critical as the Lakers navigate through their upcoming challenges without their key players. The team’s faith in him is evident, and his performance against the Kings further solidifies his role as a valuable player for the Lakers.
