Former Undrafted Player Shows Out as Lakers Earn Second Straight Victory Over the Timberwolves
An incredible week for Austin Reaves continues as he hits the game-winner to push the Lakers to a 116-115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Reaves came into the game with a 40-point and a 50-point game in his last few contests. He is quickly becoming the reason Laker fans should feel reassured while their top two players are out. The former Oklahoma Sooner struggled a bit compared to his last few games. He had a tough shooting night and scored just a couple of points in the third quarter. He was doing most of his work during the first half with 18 points, and in the fourth quarter, where he was coming in clutch. Austin isn't just scoring the ball how he wants to during this scoring stretch. He is also picking up the assists that are missing with both Luka Doncic and LeBron James out. He tied his career high with 16 assists.
The player nicknamed AR-15 wasn't alone, though, in putting on a show. New signee Jake LaRavia showed out, putting up 27 points on 10-for-11 shooting from the field. Also, Deandre Ayton continues to feel more comfortable each game. He posted 17 points and 10 rebounds. Looking more and more like the Ayton we saw in the 2021 NBA Playoffs in each game. Dalton Knecht continues to do what is expected of him and be the Lakers' true sharpshooter, scoring 15 points off the bench. On the Minnesota Timberwolves' side, they were without their star player, Anthony Edwards.
Their second star, Julius Randle, tried his best to will his team to a win, scoring 33 points, but it wasn't enough. Jaden McDaniels tried his best to fill in, scoring 30 points in an aggressive performance. Those contributions almost willed the Wolves to a victory, but again, Reaves' heroic performance stopped that. Both teams showed a will to win and resilience without their star players. For the Lakers, though, it was a more surprising win and an excellent sign for what is to come as the roster continues to get healthy in a tough and loaded Western Conference.
