Austin Reaves scored 29 points on 9-of-15 shooting Friday as the Los Angeles Lakers edged the LA Clippers 125-122 at Crypto.com Arena.
“Yeah, the quality of the shot was high, so we had a lot of confidence that it’s going to go in whoever’s shooting it,” Reaves said about the team’s offensive execution. “The ball was moving and we were moving their defense. Luka, LeBron were doing a really good job. Eleven assists for both of them was major.”
Reaves reflected on playing alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James. “Sometimes it’s fun because it’s just another layer of stuff we can do. Two of the best players in the NBA cause so much chaos for teams’ defenses that you’re going to play advantage basketball,” he said.
On developing chemistry with the trio, Reaves added, “The more we play alongside one another the better we’re going to get. It’s good to finally get out there with both of them and see what that looks like. Can’t wait to continue to try to build something special.”
He highlighted the importance of taking charges as part of team defense. “Marcus did a good job. Mathurin got off balance and I saw an opportunity to make a winning play. I don’t mind taking charges because I can’t jump or block a shot. My only chance is to take a charge.”
Reaves praised Deandre Ayton’s energy and communication. “He was great. High energy. His communication on the defensive end was special tonight. Anytime we can get out and run like that, it’s good for our team. It’s an electric play, and we got to reward him for all he does that doesn’t get credit.”
The guard discussed how Marcus Smart’s presence changes defensive matchups. “Marcus goes out there and causes chaos for whoever he’s guarding. Super high energy, handsy. He gets a lot of deflections and just changes the game on that end of the floor,” Reaves said.
On the competitive intensity with opponents, Reaves reflected, “Kris Dunn and Luka, they’re both competing. Kris made a career off playing super hard defensively, and Luka is not going to back down from anybody. It’s honestly impressive. They play with a lot of energy, a lot of effort, and we matched it well.”
Reaves’ comments underline how the Lakers’ offensive flow and defensive intensity contributed to their fifth-place Western Conference standing at 34-21. Los Angeles shot 44-for-85 overall, including 17-for-31 from three-point range, with Reaves providing critical secondary scoring when the Clippers trapped Doncic in pick-and-roll.
The Lakers will host the Boston Celtics on Sunday, while the Clippers return home to face the Orlando Magic, both teams seeking momentum in the playoff race.
