Austin Reaves Scores Career-High 45 Points in Lakers Victory Over Pacers

LOS ANGELES, California — In a thrilling showdown at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, February 8, 2025, Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a career-high 45 points in a 124-117 victory over the Indiana Pacers. Reaves, who was listed as questionable due to a left elbow contusion, stepped up when his team needed him most, especially with both LeBron James and Luka Doncic sidelined.

Reaves’s scoring explosion not only marked his first career 40-point game but also highlighted his significance to the team’s recent success as the Lakers secured their fifth consecutive win. The 26-year-old finished the matchup with seven rebounds and seven assists while shooting 14-for-26 from the field, including 4-for-9 from behind the three-point line.

“I joked with him before the game,” Lakers coach JJ Redick noted. “I said, ‘Did Bron talk to you?’ He said, ‘Yeah, Bron called me [Friday] night. Told me he’s gonna be out.’ I said, ‘We probably need a 38, 8 and 8 game from you.’ 45, 7 and 7 will do. That’ll do. He played awesome.”

Reaves’s performance helped the Lakers extend their win streak as they continue to rise in the Western Conference standings. The Pacers, who were competitive throughout the game, found themselves unable to overcome the offensive onslaught provided by Reaves.

“I think once you get in the moment of the game, you feel the atmosphere and adrenaline starts pumping,” Reaves said post-game. “It becomes easier. Before I woke up this morning, my elbow was sore, but I decided to give it a go.”

The victory also marked a record achievement for Reaves, placing him among Lakers legends Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James, as he became only the seventh player in franchise history to record 45 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in a game.

“It’s surreal,” Reaves said. “I grew up a Kobe fan, so just being able to wear this uniform and compete, and to have a couple of those games where my name’s with those guys is special. I won’t take that for granted.”

Reaves crossed the 40-point threshold with a layup late in the fourth quarter, and he sealed the game with a pair of free throws. His exceptional performance was crucial as the Lakers looked to keep their momentum going as the All-Star break approached.

Rui Hachimura also contributed significantly, scoring 24 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Meanwhile, Gabe Vincent added 12 points and seven assists, and Jordan Goodwin, who had just joined the Lakers from their G League affiliate, made a notable impact in his debut with 10 points.

The Pacers struggled without starting center Myles Turner, who was sidelined due to injury. They were led by Pascal Siakam’s 23 points and Tyrese Haliburton’s 19 points, but ultimately the Lakers’ offense proved too much.

As the All-Star Game approaches, the Lakers are showing promise in their recent performances, and with the potential return of key players James and Doncic in the upcoming games against the Utah Jazz, the team looks poised to continue their ascent in the league.