Austin Reaves highlighted Los Angeles’ teamwork following their 130-120 win over the Miami Heat on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena. The Lakers extended their streak to three games and improved to 5-2.
“We did a lot of really good things. And it could have been even better if me and Luka would have made a shot,” Reaves said during the postgame interview.
Reaves scored 26 points with 11 assists, while Luka Doncic contributed 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. He emphasized the supporting cast’s performance, singling out Jake LaRavia: “Jake, another big game. Just passed the ball and got open looks and most of us made them and some of them didn’t.”
Reaves discussed LaRavia’s confidence, noting his impact in big games. “This is what I expected. Him to come in, play big minutes, be a big part of what we’re trying to do. On nights like tonight… he’s going to be a big swing of why we win.”
The guard also praised Bronny James’ contributions off the bench. “I thought he played really good minutes. Was good defensively. Did the right things offensively… the more he continues to get those minutes, the better he’ll be.”
Reaves highlighted a memorable moment with his alley-oop to Bronny James. “Pretty special play for him… I’ve got to be the first person in NBA history to throw a father a lob and a son a lob. It was cool,” he said.
He also spoke about Luka’s approach this season under JJ Redick’s guidance. “He’s an idiot… joking around, having a good time. Having to move his family… it was tough. And now I think he’s just getting comfortable, having a good time.”
Los Angeles built an 18-point halftime lead and maintained control despite Miami cutting the gap in the third quarter. Jaxson Hayes scored a season-high 15 points on perfect 7-of-7 shooting, including his first three-pointer as a Laker.
The Lakers shot 50.5% from the field and dished 33 assists, compared to Miami’s 29. Marcus Smart recorded his 1,000th career steal, and Rui Hachimura added 15 points with six rebounds.
Miami was led by Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s 31 points, with Bam Adebayo and Pelle Larsson each scoring 17. The Heat shot 51.2% overall but struggled from deep, hitting 9-of-33 from three-point range.
With LeBron James sidelined due to sciatica and Deandre Ayton out with back spasms, Los Angeles relied on team depth and ball movement to secure the victory. The Lakers now head to Portland for their next game on Monday.
