By HarshitLos Angeles | October 27, 2025 7 AM EDT
Reaves Delivers a Historic Performance
The Los Angeles Lakers found their hero in Austin Reaves on Sunday night as he erupted for a career-high 51 points to lead the team to a 127–120 victory over the Sacramento Kings. In doing so, Reaves joined an elite list as just the 12th player in Lakers history to score 50 or more points in a single game — a feat that underscores his growing stature in the franchise.
With Luka Doncic sidelined due to a finger sprain and a lower left leg contusion, Reaves stepped into the offensive spotlight and delivered a masterclass in scoring, control, and confidence.
“He was fantastic and did a little bit of everything tonight,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said postgame. “He was all over the place and scored the basketball at an incredible level. … He lives in the moment and is ready for every moment that comes.”
Filling the Void Left by Doncic
The Lakers were already facing questions about where their scoring would come from without Doncic — their primary playmaker and offensive engine. Reaves answered those doubts emphatically.
He shot 21-of-22 from the free-throw line, a personal best, while nearly securing a triple-double with 11 rebounds and nine assists. His aggressive drives, midrange control, and ability to draw contact kept the Kings’ defense off balance all night.
Reaves’ scoring barrage came in a variety of ways — attacking off the dribble, hitting contested jumpers, and finishing through contact at the rim. He showcased not just scoring ability, but also composure and leadership in moments when the Lakers’ offense stalled.
Teammates Celebrate a Career Night
When the final buzzer sounded, Lakers players swarmed Reaves on the court and later in the locker room, showering him with praise and celebration.
“It means a lot,” Reaves said afterward. “We play basketball for those moments, and for them to treat me like that is special.”
The 26-year-old guard has steadily evolved from an undrafted rookie into one of the Lakers’ most reliable two-way players. His energy, basketball IQ, and willingness to embrace big moments have earned him the respect of both teammates and fans.
Sunday night was the culmination of that growth — a reminder that Reaves isn’t just a complementary piece, but a player capable of carrying the team when called upon.
Dominance at the Free-Throw Line
Reaves’ 21 made free throws put him in rare company. He became just the eighth player in Lakers history to make 20 or more free throws in a single game, joining legends such as Kobe Bryant, Jerry West, and Elgin Baylor.
His ability to consistently get to the line underscored his aggressive approach. Sacramento’s defenders struggled to contain him without fouling, as Reaves repeatedly attacked the paint and forced contact.
Lakers Look Ahead
With Doncic expected to miss at least a week, Reaves’ performance could be a preview of what’s to come. The Lakers will likely rely heavily on his offensive production and playmaking during Doncic’s absence.
Reaves’ confidence was evident throughout the night — from his calm demeanor at the line to his clutch shot-making in the fourth quarter, where he scored 14 points to fend off a late Kings rally.
For a Lakers team looking to build early-season chemistry under first-year coach JJ Redick, Reaves’ breakthrough offers both reassurance and momentum.
If Sunday’s performance is any indication, Austin Reaves may be ready to take his game — and the Lakers — to the next level.