BREAKING: In a stunning display, Austin Reaves scored a career-high 51 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 127-120 victory against the Sacramento Kings on November 5, 2023, despite the absence of star player Luka Doncic. Reaves delivered a clutch performance, sinking four crucial free throws within the final 32 seconds.
Reaves shot 12 of 22 from the field, including six 3-pointers, marking the 500th of his career. He also contributed significantly with nine assists and 11 rebounds, becoming just the fourth player in the last 40 years to achieve at least 50 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists in a game. This elite company includes Doncic, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.
In a historical context, the last time a Lakers player reached this milestone was on February 13, 1963, when Elgin Baylor scored 50 points alongside 15 rebounds and 11 assists against the Boston Celtics.
Despite the setback of not having Doncic due to a sprained finger and bruised leg, which will keep him sidelined for approximately a week, the Lakers found early momentum. With LeBron James also out due to sciatica, Reaves stepped up when needed most.
The Lakers established a commanding 10-point lead in the first quarter, bolstered by Rui Hachimura‘s early scoring surge of 10 points in just nine minutes. Deandre Ayton added 22 points and 15 rebounds for the Lakers, while Hachimura finished with 18 points.
As the game progressed, the Kings rallied to tie the score by halftime, thanks to their three-point shooting, including three from Westbrook. However, Reaves dominated in the fourth quarter, scoring 15 points to secure the win, including a pivotal jumper that gave the Lakers a 122-116 lead with just under two minutes remaining.
Kings’ Zach LaVine led his team with 32 points, while DeMar DeRozan contributed 21 points and Domantas Sabonis added 10 points and 14 rebounds.
The Lakers’ victory highlights the resilience of the team in overcoming injuries to key players and underscores Reaves’ emergence as a vital contributor. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Lakers navigate the upcoming games without their top two scorers.
Stay tuned for further updates on Doncic’s condition and the Lakers’ next matchup as this developing story unfolds.