Austin Reaves Hits Buzzer-Beater, Lakers Edge Timberwolves 116-115

UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, Austin Reaves delivered a jaw-dropping buzzer-beater to secure a 116-115 victory for the Los Angeles Lakers over the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 25, 2023. Reaves capped off a stellar evening with 28 points and 16 assists, continuing his remarkable performance during a critical stretch for L.A.

Reaves, stepping up in the absence of stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James due to injuries, had already set the court ablaze earlier this week with a career-high 51 points against the Sacramento Kings and followed that with 41 points against the Portland Trail Blazers. His latest heroics came with just 6.6 seconds left on the clock. After receiving an inbounds pass near center court, he skillfully maneuvered past All-Defensive team players Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, ultimately sinking a floater from 12 feet to clinch the game.

“I blacked out after the ball fell through the net,” Reaves exclaimed, as jubilation erupted from the Lakers bench. Coach JJ Redick praised Reaves, stating, “That guy is going to show up in the big moments. I’m not surprised.”

The Lakers faced a fierce challenge as the Timberwolves mounted a 14-2 run in the final minutes, erasing L.A.’s once-comfortable 20-point lead. Reaves found composure, leading his teammates and reflecting, “In those situations, you have to be calm, be confident and lead your guys through it.”

This victory marks the Lakers’ second win of the season against Minnesota, a team that previously eliminated them from the playoffs. Reaves carried the weight of that painful memory into the match, stating, “Last time we were in this building, I had the shot to tie it… and missed. That feeling sucks.”

With key players like Doncic, James, Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber sidelined, Reaves has emerged as a beacon of hope, propelling the Lakers to a 3-2 record. “I’m so proud of this group right now,” Redick noted, highlighting the team’s resilience amidst adversity.

Reaves’ contributions extended beyond scoring; he also tied his career-high with 16 assists, distributing the ball effectively as four other Lakers scored in double digits. Notably, Jake LaRavia shone with 27 points on 10-for-11 shooting, while Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura each added 17 points.

Reflecting on the team dynamic, LaRavia stated, “He’s a dog, he’s a leader, he’s a competitor. He helps rally us together.” Reaves’ journey has been nothing short of remarkable since entering the league undrafted in 2021. After just a few years, he now ranks second in points scored during the first week of the NBA season, trailing only Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

“It’s been a fun week,” Reaves said, acknowledging the support from his family and the love for the game that has driven him to this moment. “But there’s a lot of basketball to go.” As the Lakers continue to battle through injuries, all eyes will be on Reaves as he leads the charge for a hopeful season.