The Los Angeles Lakers were coming off a huge win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night, highlighted by Luka Doncic’s stellar start to the season. Doncic followed up his 43-point effort on opening night with a 49-point masterpiece in a 128-110 victory. However, during that contest, Doncic suffered multiple injuries that will sideline him for at least a week, putting the already shorthanded Lakers in an even tougher position.

But on Sunday night, Austin Reaves took it upon himself to carry the Lakers as he inched closer to superstardom. Even though the Lakers were missing both Doncic and LeBron James, with the latter still recovering from nerve problems in his back, Reaves ensured that the Purple and Gold stayed on the winning track.

Reaves put up a bonkers career-high 51 points in a 127-120 win over division rival Sacramento Kings. He left Sacramento’s defense helpless at every turn, showcasing his emergence as a full-blown superstar. This performance is the latest piece of evidence pointing toward that fact.

While the Kings may not be the toughest opposition, going on the road and scoring 51 points—dismantling defenders like Dennis Schroder and Russell Westbrook—is a mark of a player who has truly taken the leap. And what better way for the Lakers to cap off Reaves’ career night than with a huge win.

“All that matters is that we won,” Reaves said with a huge smile during his postgame interview with Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet. “We got another tough one tomorrow night. Quick turnaround. We’ll be right back at it.” (Fast forward to 1:20.)

Reaves became just the fifth player in a Lakers uniform to score over 50 points since the turn of the century, joining legends LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and Anthony Davis—a feat he doesn’t take lightly.

“I don’t deserve all that. I grew up watching all those guys. I ain’t got no words,” Reaves added humbly.

### Austin Reaves Completes Leap to Superstardom for the Lakers

Reaves began his career as a Laker back in Summer League, impressing coaches with his hustle and ability to be a “glue guy” on offense. But he has since blossomed into a major force all on his own. If he continues this kind of incredible play, he might be in line for his first All-Star season.

Of course, it will be impossible for him to score 50 points every night. But the Lakers will need him to continue stepping up in a similar fashion as they await the return of both Doncic and James.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/los-angeles-lakers/lakers-news-austin-reaves-drops-the-mic-with-perfect-reaction-to-51-point-stunner