Austin Reaves delivers career-high with 35-point masterclass, dominates Lakers’ comeback win over 76ers

The Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard, Austin Reaves, has recently made a comeback in last Thursday's match against the Philadelphia 76ers, after missing several games due to a left leg injury he suffered on Christmas Day in a 2025 matchup against the Houston Rockets.


With the Lakers' star player, Luka Doncic, sidelined due to an in-game injury suffered in Thursday night's game, the Lakers needed a standout player, and Reaves delivered, proving once again why his contributions deserve recognition.

Austin Reaves leads Lakers, shines in 119-115 win over 76ers amid Luka Doncic's exit

The 25-year-old guard has consistently shown his ability to score and deliver outstanding performances. Despite a limit on his playing time, Reaves came off the bench and quickly became the team's top scorer by halftime in a 119-115 victory over the 76ers. For a brief time, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves shared the court, playing together in only their 10th game this season due to injuries, something that head coach JJ Redick had been eagerly anticipating.


But the moment was cut short. Late in the second quarter, with just three minutes remaining, Doncic pulled up and headed straight to the locker room. Doncic stayed out for the rest of the game, with Redick noting it was a left hamstring injury.

Austin Reaves dominates fourth quarter, powers Lakers past Philadelphia

With Luka Doncic out, Austin Reaves stepped up in a big way for the Lakers. Reaves finished with an impressive 35 points in 25 minutes, the first player in league history to reach that mark. Reaves also made two three-pointers early in the fourth quarter.

“He was phenomenal tonight,” said Coach JJ Redick.

Back from a left leg injury that kept him out since Christmas Day, Reaves impressed with his quickness. He hit a 26-foot 3-pointer in the third quarter, then quickly drove past Tyrese Maxey, helping the Lakers stay ahead.

“Winning’s the main thing, regardless of stats, at the end of the day. Did you win or lose? That’s how I look at the game”, Reaves shared following the game.

Thursday night's performance proved that Reaves could step up when the team needs him most. Returning from injury, he not only delivered an impressive play but also helped lead the Lakers to a crucial comeback win, reflecting that even without Doncic on the court, the Lakers have a player capable of making a big impact.


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