The Los Angeles Lakers were looking to avoid a catastrophic 3-game losing streak when the Orlando Magic came into the Crypto.com arena.
They successfully did so because Austin Reaves had a career-high scoring night, leading the Lakers to the win with 35 points. His teammates were overjoyed, as they mobbed the versatile sophomore with water bottles during his post-game interview.
Lakers are loving the career night from Austin Reaves. 🔥😂
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) March 20, 2023
The vibes on the new Lakers team have been great, though their recent losses threatened their chemistry. Reaves injected life into the locker room once again as they picked up a crucial win before facing the Phoenix Suns next.
Is Austin Reaves The Lakers X-Factor?
The Lakers have weapons across the lineup now. Despite his slow start, Malik Beasley is an absolute laser who will come up big in moments more often than when they were playing the likes of Patrick Beverley or Kendrick Nunn in that role. D’Angelo Russell has had some rough games but has also proven his microwave-scoring ability can be a game-changer.
Jarred Vanderbilt’s offense is not solid enough for consistent minutes, but he is arguably their best perimeter defender and second-best post defender behind Anthony Davis. These additions have given the Lakers versatility that they can dominate with when LeBron James returns.
Austin Reaves is their X-Factor. If he can go off for 20+ points in a healthy lineup, that may be the difference between a playoff win and a loss. His ability to play 3 positions and score on all levels on the court makes him indelible to the Lakers’ current roster. There’s a reason the team refused to trade him away in the winter. Reaves is a terrific player and the Lakers will hope he can keep this form going through the end of the season.
Since LeBron’s injury, Reaves has averaged 17.7 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.0 rebounds on 56.4% shooting from the field. He’s also shooting nearly 40% from three in this stretch, currently at 39.5% on 3-point attempts.
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