Imagine a player stepping up in the absence of two basketball giants, LeBron James and Luka Dončić, to deliver a performance that leaves everyone in awe. That’s exactly what Austin Reaves did, and this is the story of how he became the hero the Lakers needed. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: Reaves didn’t just fill the void—he dominated, scoring a career-high 51 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 127-120 victory over the Sacramento Kings. And this is the part most people miss: he did it all while falling just one assist short of a triple-double, adding 11 rebounds, nine assists, and two steals in 39 minutes of play. This feat made him only the fourth undrafted player in NBA history to score 50 or more points in a single game.
As the final buzzer sounded, Reaves was swarmed by his jubilant teammates, celebrating a performance that would be remembered for years. But the celebration didn’t stop there—his teammates gave him a locker room shower, a fitting reward for his tour de force in the purple and gold. Now, as the Lakers prepare to face the Blazers in less than 24 hours, let’s dive into four key takeaways from this unforgettable Sunday night.
1. Reaves Steals the Spotlight
Heading into Sunday’s game, Reaves had already impressed, averaging 25.5 points per game through the Lakers’ first two matchups—good enough for 21st in the NBA. But against the Kings, he matched that total in a single night, stepping into the role typically reserved for Luka Dončić, who was sidelined with a finger sprain and leg contusion. By the end of the game, Reaves’ scoring average had soared to 34.0 points per game, tying him for third in the league. But here’s the controversial part: Can Reaves sustain this level of play, or was this just a one-off performance?
Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Reaves, saying, ‘This is a small-town kid from Arkansas who went undrafted, averaged 20 points last season, and just dropped 50. These moments are incredible for him. He lives in the moment and is ready for every challenge.’ Reaves started slow, missing his first two 3-pointers and committing a turnover before drawing a foul on a 3-point attempt. Those free throws, however, were the catalyst for his explosive night. He dissected the Kings’ defense, utilizing the pick-and-roll with Deandre Ayton, creating shots for himself and his teammates, and drawing fouls left and right.
Reaves finished with six 2-point shots, six 3-pointers (including three crucial triples in the fourth quarter), and an astonishing 21 free throws. He also added 11 rebounds and nine assists, creating an additional 18 points for the Lakers. With Dončić and Gabe Vincent sidelined, the Lakers will need more of these heroics from Reaves in the coming games.
2. Reaves Gets the Last Laugh in Trash Talk with Dončić
Reaves’ 50-point night came just two days after Dončić fell one point short of the milestone, missing a free throw in the Lakers’ win over Minnesota. When Reaves found himself at 49 points with 23 seconds left, he admitted, ‘I went to the free throw line thinking, ‘I better not miss.’ He sank both shots, not only securing his 51 points but also earning bragging rights over Dončić. ‘Our whole relationship is just talking trash back and forth,’ Reaves said. ‘He told me he needed 60, and I laughed it off.’ While Reaves didn’t hit 60, his 51 points were more than enough to seal the win. LeBron James, who didn’t make the trip, celebrated on social media, tweeting, ‘50 piece 🐔 nugget!!!!! That boy AR TOOOO TOUGH!!’
3. The Magic of 22
While Reaves wears the number 15, Sunday night was all about the number 22. He attempted 22 shots, making 12, and went 21-for-22 from the free throw line. He also finished with a +22 plus/minus rating, the highest of any player on the court. ‘Without Luka, Bron, and Jaxson Hayes, I knew I had to step up,’ Reaves said. ‘I wasn’t focused on scoring 50; I just wanted to do whatever it took to win. And we all played a hell of a game.’ Reaves’ 34.3% usage rate was the second-highest of his career, as he seamlessly transitioned between scorer, playmaker, and superstar.
4. Ayton Outshines Sabonis in the Center Battle
Reaves wasn’t the only Laker to shine. Deandre Ayton had his best game in a Lakers uniform, finishing with 22 points and 15 rebounds, including five offensive boards. He outplayed three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis, who managed just 10 points and 14 rebounds while battling foul trouble. ‘Ayton keeps getting better every day,’ Redick said. ‘His pick-and-roll decisions and offensive play were outstanding.’ Reaves added, ‘DA played like a monster tonight, and that’s what we need from him every night.’
No play better exemplified Ayton’s dominance than his final bucket. After missing a shot on a pick-and-roll, he tipped the rebound away from Sabonis and slammed it home for a putback dunk, followed by a celebratory scream. ‘That’s the kind of aggression we need from him,’ Reaves said. ‘We don’t care if he makes or misses—we just want him to keep attacking.’ Sabonis’ foul trouble, a recurring issue, further highlighted the Kings’ lack of frontcourt depth.
Final Thoughts
Reaves’ performance raises a thought-provoking question: Is this the beginning of a new era for the Lakers, or just a fleeting moment of brilliance? With Dončić and Vincent out, the Lakers will rely heavily on Reaves and Ayton to keep the momentum going. As for the Kings, Sabonis’ foul issues and the team’s lack of depth remain pressing concerns. What do you think? Can Reaves sustain this level of play, or was this just a one-time miracle? Let us know in the comments!
