Austin Reaves highlighted the Lakers’ perseverance despite Monday’s 113-110 loss to the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena.
On the Pistons’ late-game performance, Reaves said, “No. It was good basketball and they made one more shot.”
Reaves reflected on the team’s response during the road trip: “I think we went down what, 16, 18 in third, and then battled our way back… it was a long trip and I like the way we competed.”
He praised the Lakers’ physicality and intensity: “Just the physicality of the intensity that we’re playing with… you see them kind of tonight… they played well and hard against you in your building a couple weeks ago.”
Looking ahead, Reaves discussed preparing for the Indiana Pacers: “Same thing they do every night… they play hard, they play fast, well coached… we’re going to have to go in there and play hard and get a win.”
Reaves addressed the absence of Marcus, noting his influence: “Marcus is a huge glue guy for us… guards every team’s best player… when you don’t have that you know sucks but it’s next man up mentality.”
The Lakers overcame a 16-point deficit early in the third quarter to take a 108-107 lead with 39.9 seconds left, thanks to 32 points from Luka Doncic and 24 from Reaves.
Daniss Jenkins scored 30 points, including six in the final 34 seconds, to secure Detroit’s fourth consecutive win. Jalen Duren added 20 points and 10 rebounds, helping the Pistons maintain their top spot in the Eastern Conference.
Los Angeles will visit the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, aiming to bounce back and continue its push toward the playoffs.
