On Christmas Day, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Golden State Warriors, and it wasn’t just another game for basketball fans—it was a showcase of NBA talent featuring two legends, LeBron James and Stephen Curry. But the night belonged to Austin Reaves, who delivered not only a triple-double but also hit the game-winning shot, leading the Lakers to a thrilling 115-113 victory.
Reaves scored 26 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and issued 10 assists, marking his third career triple-double. What’s even more remarkable is the way he secured the game’s deciding moment. With just one second remaining on the clock, Reaves drove through the Warriors' defense for the game-winning layup, sealing the win for the Lakers at Chase Center.
Reflecting on the night, Reaves noted the emotional gravity of his performance. "I'm not really an emotional person. But when I was doing radio out there, sitting on the scorer's table, there was a quick second where I thought I might tear up. That doesn't happen a lot," he shared during the postgame press conference. The emotions of the moment were amplified by thoughts of his family, who watched from home. "I know all my people back home are locked in... it means a lot to me."
This game was particularly significant for the Lakers, who had to navigate the first half without their star player, Anthony Davis, after he exited early due to an ankle injury. His absence posed challenges, but Reaves stepped up to take the lead alongside LeBron James, who scored 31 points and dished out 10 assists. "Austin's a fearless competitor," Lakers head coach JJ Redick remarked, emphasizing Reaves' clutch performance.
Despite facing some early struggles shooting, Reaves regained his footing after halftime, contributing significantly to the Lakers’ offense. He scored 16 of his 26 points during the second half, underscoring his ability to rise under pressure.
The dynamic of the game shifted dramatically toward the end. The Lakers appeared to be comfortably leading, but Curry, known for his ability to perform under pressure, countered with 17 points alone in the fourth quarter, including two deep three-pointers. The Tyson Warriors found themselves tied with only seconds left, thanks to Curry's last-minute heroics. The stakes were high, but Reaves and the Lakers executed their strategy flawlessly.
"The play was not for me," Reaves explained about the final moments. Initially, the Lakers wanted to pass to LeBron James, who had been integral throughout the match. But with the Warriors’ defense double-teaming him, it was Reaves who was left to make the decisive play. "Five seconds is a long time when it Comes to basketball... the last thing you want to do is go too early," he added, showcasing his awareness of the game’s intensity.
With the pressure mounting and time running out, Reaves remained composed. He received the inbound pass, made his move against Andrew Wiggins, and scored the basket just before time expired. It was not just any shot; it was the shot of his career so far, made even more special by the occasion.
Rui Hachimura and Max Christie also contributed significantly to the Lakers’ win, with Hachimura scoring 18 points and Christie finishing with 16. Their collective performance helped smooth over the gap left by Davis’ injury, showing strength and resilience. The Lakers were appearing on Christmas Day for the 26th consecutive year, and they surely made it memorable for their fans.
While the Lakers celebrated their victory, the Warriors were left to ponder the loss. Despite Curry’s 38-point game, it was not enough to secure the win, highlighting the fine margins often present in competitive basketball.
Reflecting on the stakes of the game, Reaves stated, "When you get a win like this on the road, it does nothing but puts confidence in the group." The game encapsulated more than just Western Conference rivalry; it was about personal triumph over adversity for Reaves, who was almost undrafted just years ago. Now, he joins elite company, being the tenth player to record a triple-double on Christmas Day.
The night’s festivities ended not with the usual Christmas cheer, but with the echo of the Lakers’ victory. Confetti fell, and fans left with stories of what they witnessed: Austin Reaves, the young star, proving his worth and leading his team when it mattered most. With this game, Reaves has not only solidified his place on the Lakers but also etched his name among the league's Christmas legends.
