Austin Reaves Drops 43 Points in Lakers Win Over Pistons

Austin Reaves scored 43 points, shooting 14-of-27 from the field, to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-116 victory against the Detroit Pistons.

Austin Reaves scored a season-high 43 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. Reaves shot 14-of-27 from the field, including 4-of-6 from 3-point range, and converted all 11 of his free throw attempts. The win improved the Lakers' record to 9-2 and extended their current winning streak to five games.

The Lakers played without leading scorer Luka Doncic, who sat out due to tightness in his lower back. It was the second game Doncic has missed this season for that reason, and Los Angeles remains undefeated at 2-0 in his absence. Despite Detroit ranking No. 1 in defense, the Lakers built an early 38-14 lead in the first quarter, during which Quentin Grimes scored 10 of his 12 points.

Four other Lakers joined Reaves in double figures. Collin Sexton and Ziaire Williams each contributed 17 points off the bench, while Walker Kessler recorded a double-double with 12 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks. Detroit (6-3) narrowed the deficit to 90-89 early in the fourth quarter while Reaves was resting, but Los Angeles maintained the lead through the final whistle.

Coach JJ Redick indicated he has low concern regarding Doncic’s back injury being a long-term issue. The Lakers are scheduled to continue their four-game road trip in Atlanta on Monday.