Austin Reaves scored a season-high 43 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, stepping up in the absence of Luka Doncic. Reaves shot 14-of-27 from the field, including 4-of-6 from three, and made all 11 of his free throws. He even mimicked Doncic’s style on a banked-in 3-pointer in the third quarter, saying afterward, “This is some bulls--- Luka would shoot.”
The Lakers improved to 9-2 and extended their winning streak to five games despite Doncic missing the game due to lower back tightness. Collin Sexton added 17 points off the bench, while Ziaire Williams, Walker Kessler, and Quentin Grimes also scored in double figures. Detroit, ranked first in defense, trimmed a 24-point deficit to one point late in the fourth, but Los Angeles held on.
Coach JJ Redick praised Reaves’ decision-making and aggression, noting his ability to attack the paint. He also explained why he didn’t bring Reaves back in sooner, emphasizing the importance of rest and consistency. The Lakers are 2-0 without Doncic this season and are expected to have him back for their next game in Atlanta.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing