Austin Reaves Scores Career-High 51 as Lakers Defeat Kings

UPDATE: Austin Reaves just shattered his career-high, scoring 51 points as the Los Angeles Lakers clinched a thrilling 126-120 victory over the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center on October 29, 2023. This explosive performance comes amid the absence of superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James, showcasing Reaves’ resilience and leadership.

In a game that pushed the Lakers to their limits, Reaves’ remarkable scoring ability was pivotal. He not only surpassed his previous best of 45 points but also contributed 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Deandre Ayton complemented Reaves with a double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds.

Reaves kicked off the game with a steady start, scoring seven points and dishing out two assists in the first quarter, helping the Lakers to a 36-27 lead. However, it was in the second quarter where he truly shined, netting over half of the Lakers’ 26 points, ending the half tied at 62-62 after the Kings rallied with 35 points in that period.

As the game progressed, Reaves continued to dominate, scoring another 15 points in the third quarter, allowing the Lakers to take a 95-90 lead heading into the final period. The fourth quarter was a test of nerves, especially as the Kings momentarily surged ahead at 101-97 while Reaves was resting on the bench.

Upon his return, Reaves unleashed a scoring flurry, making three consecutive pull-up three-pointers within just 2.5 minutes, pushing his total to 45 points and giving the Lakers a critical 108-101 lead. He officially broke his career-high with a floater that extended the Lakers’ lead to 122-116 with just two minutes remaining.

In the closing seconds, Reaves secured his first-ever 50-point game by calmly sinking four free throws, sealing the victory for the Lakers. Rui Hachimura added 18 points, while Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia contributed 11 points each.

The Kings, despite their defeat, saw strong performances from Zach LaVine, who scored 32 points, and DeMar DeRozan with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Dennis Schroder also made an impact with an 18-point, 12-assist double-double.

With this victory, the Lakers will look to build on their momentum as they prepare to host the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, October 30, 2023. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Reaves can continue this impressive form.