Austin Reaves Is Carrying the Lakers

Since Dončić went out, and with LeBron still unavailable, Austin Reaves has stepped in and taken full control. He’s not just filling in—he’s carrying the Lakers night after night.

Reaves has emerged as the team’s primary scorer, playmaker, and closer. He’s shouldering the responsibilities of two All-NBA players and delivering at a level that’s keeping the Lakers competitive.

It started with a 51-point explosion in Sacramento. Reaves shot 12-of-22 from the field, hit 6-of-10 from three, and knocked down 21 of 22 free throws. He added 11 rebounds and 9 assists in 39 minutes. It was the most dominant performance of his career—efficient, controlled, and relentless.

He followed it with 41 more points in the next game, picking up exactly where he left off. His efficiency held, his poise never wavered, and he continued to be the driving force behind the offense.

Then, against the Timberwolves, Reaves closed the game again—this time with a buzzer-beater. With the Lakers down one, he buried a floater as time expired to secure a 116–115 win on the road. He finished with 28 points and a career-high 16 assists, controlling the game from start to finish.

Across the three games without LeBron and Luka, Reaves is averaging 40.0 points, 10.0 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. He’s shooting efficiently, drawing contact, managing the offense, and delivering in clutch moments—all while carrying the largest load of his career.

But it’s not just the numbers. It’s the command. Reaves has taken over the offense and earned the trust of his teammates. The ball moves through him. The pace is set by him. When games tighten in the fourth quarter, the Lakers are leaning on Reaves—and he’s delivering.

This stretch has revealed what he’s capable of when given the keys. He’s not just keeping the Lakers competitive—he’s keeping them alive. For now, it’s his show. And he’s making the most of it.