After another dominant win, the Los Angeles Lakers’ locker room was filled with laughter, especially following a lighthearted moment between LeBron James and Austin Reaves. In a game that saw the Lakers defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 124-108, Reaves joked about a lob he threw to the 40-year-old James during the game, sparking a hilarious response from the four-time NBA champion.
Reaves, who had an outstanding performance with 30 points and six three-pointers, spoke to the media about the play. “It’s amazing. It’s amazing. You got two of the best players in the league, and then I chose to throw a hook lob pass to the 40-year-old. When I threw it, I didn’t think it was a good idea, and then obviously he continues to go get it,” Reaves said. “I told him on the bench I wish I played with him about 10 years ago because I would have thrown the craziest… I would have thrown it every possession.”
James, never one to miss a chance for some banter, chimed in from the background, “That dumb*ss lob set me back three days.” The playful jab sent Reaves into a fit of laughter.
Despite the joke, the chemistry between Reaves and James on the court is undeniable. The two, alongside Luka Doncic, combined for 92 points, helping Los Angeles secure its third win in four games. James finished with 27 points and eight assists, continuing to show why he remains one of the league’s top players, even at age 40.
Reaves’ performance in the game was especially noteworthy. His 30 points helped the Lakers improve to 47-30 on the season, keeping them in third place in the Western Conference. The 26-year-old guard has been a revelation this season, and his shooting has been a major asset for the Lakers. Over the past two games, Reaves has made 15 three-pointers, becoming the first Laker to achieve that feat.
The Lakers’ win was not just a result of their offense; their defense also played a key role. Los Angeles shot 51.9% from the field and 92.9% from the free-throw line, with 26 assists on 41 made baskets. Reaves also contributed seven assists, showcasing his well-rounded game.
The Pelicans, who were without several key players, including Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, had a strong first quarter, led by Jose Alvarado’s 18 points. However, the Lakers’ defense tightened in the second quarter, outscoring the Pelicans 37-23 to take a 62-53 lead into halftime.
Alvarado finished with 27 points, but the Pelicans could not sustain their momentum, dropping their fourth straight road game. New Orleans struggled to match the Lakers’ offensive firepower and was outscored in every quarter after the first.
Reaves’ lighthearted moment with James came after another high-scoring performance. Despite the playful back-and-forth, it’s clear that the Lakers are on a roll, and Reaves’ growth continues to be one of the bright spots of their season.
As the Lakers head toward the final stretch of the regular season, they’ll be looking to build on this win, with Reaves, James, and Doncic leading the charge. The Lakers remain in a strong position to contend in the Western Conference, and Reaves’ development is a major factor in their success.
