Even with LeBron James (left ankle soreness) and not too long ago acquired Luka Doncic (left calf pressure) out of the lineup on Saturday, the Los Angeles Lakers took benefit of their quick begin to beat the Indiana Pacers, 124-117.
The Lakers led 44-22 after the primary quarter and held off a late Pacers rally to get the win.
If it was not for Reaves’ profession efficiency, it possible would have been a unique story for a Lakers crew that has now gained 5 in a row.
Reaves had a career-high 45 factors (14-of-26 FG, 4-of-9 3PT), seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals. He additionally made all 13 of his free throw makes an attempt.
In response to LakersNation reporter Ryan Ward, Reaves is the nineteenth undrafted participant in NBA historical past to file a 40-point sport and solely the second undrafted Laker to take action (George Mikan). It’s the second-most factors by an undrafted participant in NBA historical past, solely trailing Fred VanVleet’s 54 factors towards the Orlando Magic in 2021.
Reaves is simply the fourth participant in franchise historical past with 45+ factors, 5+ rebounds, and 5+ assists in a sport since 2000, becoming a member of James, former Laker Anthony Davis and the late Kobe Bryant.
This steal and subsequent dunk gave Reaves a career-high 39 factors on the time because the Lakers held a 108-93 lead with 7:37 left.
He weaved his method via Indiana’s protection and went excessive off the glass with this layup to increase the Lakers’ benefit to 115-103 with beneath 4 minutes to play.
Contemplating James simply grew to become the oldest participant in NBA historical past to file a 40-point sport together with his 42-point efficiency towards the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, Reaves’ capability to step up and take over the sport on Saturday was that rather more spectacular.
Whereas there may be some optimism that Doncic might make his Lakers debut on Monday towards the Utah Jazz, he, too, was on the bench to witness the profession outing from Reaves.
The Lakers (31-19) have gained 5 straight and 9 of their final 10 video games. As soon as this crew is at full power, they could possibly be legit title contenders, particularly if Reaves continues to indicate out.
