Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reeves is rising at an astonishing rate and has become an indispensable core member of the team. In a recent game, although the Lakers lost to the Denver Nuggets 126-131, Reeves’ performance was eye-catching. He proved his worth with outstanding statistics and all-around ability.
Game review: Reeves’ highlights
The Lakers faced a huge challenge in this crucial game. Luka Dončić was rested after back-to-back games, and LeBron James was absent due to a groin injury, so the team desperately needed someone to step up and take charge. Austin Reeves lived up to expectations and became the focal point of the team.
Impressive all-round stats
Reaves shot 26 times, making 13, and efficiently scored 37 points, while also contributing 8 rebounds and 13 assists. His performance was not only comprehensive, but also extremely aggressive, demonstrating his powerful ability on the offensive end.
Reached a milestone in the first half
What’s even more amazing is that Reaves scored an amazing number of points in the first half: 22 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. This performance puts him in the same league as legendary Lakers star Kobe Bryant, and makes him only the second player in Lakers history since the 1996-1997 season to score at least 20 points and 10 assists in the first half.
According to an official Lakers announcement on X platform (formerly Twitter), this achievement highlights the value and potential of Reeves. Even superstars like LeBron James have failed to achieve the same feat in the first half.

Rives’s growth path
From a substitute role player to the current team core, Rives’s career trajectory is inspiring. The 26-year-old guard has gradually grown in the Lakers, especially when the team’s main players are out, he can always step up and show his competitiveness.
From substitute to core
When he first joined the league, Reeves mainly played as a substitute, providing energy and vitality for the team. However, as he gained experience and confidence, he gradually grew into a player who could take over the game in crucial moments. He has shown outstanding talent and consistency, both in terms of setting up the offense and scoring points himself.
Working with star teammates
When Reeves is on the court with LeBron James or Luka Dončić, he can share the load of playmaking and control the rhythm of the team’s offense. In addition, he has a keen eye for the court and can always find opportunities to create scoring opportunities for the team when the opponent’s defense is loose.
The Lakers’ future hope
When the team is healthy, Reeves is usually the Lakers’ third offensive option. However, this role does not mean that he is a supporting player. On the contrary, he has become one of the team’s important pillars.
Filling in for the main player
With James still recovering from injury, Reeves’ responsibilities have become even greater. He needs to continue to perform at a high level, lead the team through difficult times, and ensure that the Lakers do not drop in the standings. His performance has proven that he is fully capable of carrying the team in critical moments.
Injecting competitiveness into the team
Even when facing a strong opponent, Reeves can make the team more competitive through his own efforts. For example, in this game, it was his outstanding performance that allowed the Lakers to show resilience in the back-to-back schedule.
Summary: Reeves’ rise is of great significance
The rise of Austin Rivers is not only a personal success for him, but also a source of hope for the future of the Lakers. As a young player, he has already proven that he can be one of the team’s key players and step up when it matters most.
In the upcoming games, Rivers will continue to play an important role and help the Lakers steadily advance in the fierce competition. Whether it’s organizing the offense or scoring, he has shown maturity and composure beyond his years. It can be said that Rivers has become an indispensable part of the Lakers, and his future is worth looking forward to.