In what could be considered the highlight of his career so far, Austin Reaves delivered a jaw-dropping game-winning layup to secure a thrilling 115-113 victory for the Los Angeles Lakers over the Golden State Warriors. The game was a Christmas Day special, and Reaves’ performance was one for the ages. But after the game, it was clear that the emotional weight of the moment had a profound impact on the 26-year-old guard.
Austin Reaves’ Emotional Game-Winner and Triple
“I’m not an emotional person,” Reaves said after the game, reflecting on the wave of feelings he experienced. “But when I was doing radio out there… got the game ball, and threw it to D-Lo, there was a quick second where I thought I might tear up. That doesn’t happen a lot. But it’s Christmas.”
The weight of the moment wasn’t lost on Reaves. As he stepped up in the clutch to hit the game-winning layup, he was acutely aware of the significance of his achievement, not just for himself but for his family and supporters. “I know my parents are back home watching; my brother is probably in Germany right now… All my people back home are locked in and sitting around watching the game,” he said, visibly moved. “That means a lot to me. I always say I’m not necessarily supposed to be in this position. I got lucky, got my foot in the door, and took advantage of an opportunity.”
And while the game-winner was a defining moment for Reaves, it wasn’t just about the layup. “Now, I’m sitting here, on Christmas, with a game-winner and a triple-double. It’s the win that matters the most to me.” Reaves’ performance encapsulated everything that has made him such a key piece for the Lakers this season.
Reaves had an incredible game, posting a triple-double with 26 points (8-20 FG), 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and a steal. His ability to impact the game in multiple facets was on full display. Still, his composed decision-making in the final seconds earned him the admiration of his teammates and fans alike.
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Despite the pressure, Reaves showed immense poise when it mattered most. The Lakers’ final play was initially designed for LeBron James, but Reaves, with ice in his veins, made the split-second decision to drive to the basket himself instead of passing to James. His decision was more than just a calculated move—it was a statement about his growing confidence and trust in himself in clutch situations. The result? It was a layup that sealed the game and marked a turning point in his career.
With Anthony Davis sidelined due to injury early in the game, the Lakers were in a precarious situation. Davis played just seven minutes before going down, leaving the Lakers without their best player. Reaves faced stepping up in a big way, and he did just that. His performance wasn’t just impressive; it was necessary. The Lakers needed someone to carry the load, and Reaves did so with grace and determination.
This victory against the Warriors served as a reminder of why the Lakers can’t afford to let Reaves slip through their fingers. With the February 6th trade deadline approaching, the Lakers are expected to make moves to improve their roster, but one thing is clear: Austin Reaves should be untouchable. Aside from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Reaves has emerged as the only other consistently reliable star on the roster.
Reaves is averaging 17.0 points, 4.9 assists, 3.8 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game for the season. He’s shooting 44.0% from the field, 35.2% from three, and 79.5% from the free-throw line—solid numbers that reflect his value on both ends of the court. His ability to step up when needed has made him one of the league’s most underrated players.
As the Lakers approach the trade deadline, there will be a lot of speculation about who could be added to the team to bolster their chances of a deep playoff run. However, no matter their moves, one thing is sure: Austin Reaves must remain a part of the Lakers’ core. With his consistency, maturity, and ability to perform in clutch moments, Reaves has earned his place as one of the most essential players on the team.
The Lakers are in good hands with Reaves as the reliable third option behind LeBron and AD. As they prepare for the rest of the season, Reaves’ game-winning moment against the Warriors will constantly remind him of what he brings to the table. This player seized an opportunity and is only improving with each passing game.
