Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick discussed Austin Reaves’ turnovers following the team’s loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on New Year’s Eve. Reaves, who has been a key contributor for the Lakers this season, had 4 turnovers in the 122-110 defeat.
Redick acknowledged the nature of Reaves’ game, saying the young guard’s aggressive playstyle often results in mistakes. “Maybe this is a new thing, particularly with the way he’s played the last three games,” Redick remarked. “I think the patience to just make simple plays… something that will hammer home with him.”
Reaves is averaging 17.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 2.4 turnovers in 34.4 minutes per game. The guard’s fast-paced decision-making has contributed to both his offensive success and the occasional turnover.
“There’s a nature to his game that you have to be willing to live with some of his stuff,” Redick continued. “Because of the way he attacks and the change of pace and the quick decisions and the quick bursts. There’s going to be some of that, and you have to live with that.”
The loss to Cleveland was a tough one for Los Angeles, as they fell to 18-14, placing them seventh in the Western Conference. Despite Reaves’ strong individual performance, which saw him score a season-high 35 points along with 10 assists and 9 rebounds, the Lakers struggled to keep up with the Cavaliers.
Redick, who is known for his sharp basketball insights, noted that Reaves’ turnovers could be part of his development. “It’s sort of unforced stuff that we’ll grow,” Redick added.
Cleveland, on the other hand, extended their winning streak to eight games with a commanding performance led by Jarrett Allen’s 27 points.
The Cavaliers are now 29-4, boasting the best record in the NBA. Their shooting was on fire, especially from beyond the arc, where they drained 18 three-pointers.
The Cavaliers’ defense also played a major role in the victory, limiting the Lakers to just 25.7% from three-point range. LeBron James, in his first game after turning 40, contributed 23 points but couldn’t prevent the Cavaliers from securing the win.
The Lakers’ new signings, Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, made their debut after a trade from Brooklyn earlier in the week. However, despite their efforts, Los Angeles couldn’t overcome Cleveland’s rebounding dominance and efficient shooting.