The Los Angeles Lakers managed to secure a remarkable victory over the Indiana Pacers, winning 124-117 at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Despite being down multiple star players, including LeBron James and Luka Dončić, the Lakers showcased resilience and depth, primarily led by Austin Reaves, who delivered one of the most impressive performances of his career.
With James sidelined due to ankle soreness and Dončić still recovering, Reaves rose to the occasion and finished the game with career-high numbers: 45 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. The 6-foot-5 guard, who has become increasingly pivotal for the Lakers since joining as an undrafted player from Oklahoma, shot 14-of-26 from the field, including four 3-pointers, and went perfect from the free-throw line, connecting on all 13 attempts.
Reaves' stellar performance was necessary as the Lakers faced stiff competition from the Pacers, who had won 13 of their last 16 games leading up to this contest. Indiana managed to narrow the Lakers' lead down to just five points late in the fourth quarter, but Reaves’ poise helped prevent any collapse. A pivotal lob assist to Rui Hachimura, who finished with 24 points and nine rebounds, helped seal the victory.
The Lakers opened the game strong, taking control early and leading by as much as 22 points at one stretch. They maintained their momentum through the first half, heading to halftime with a 16-point lead. Players stepped up across the board, with Gabe Vincent contributing 12 points and Jaxson Hayes dominating with 12 rebounds and two blocks. Dorian Finney-Smith also added support with seven points and six assists.
For coach JJ Redick, the performance by Reaves showcased not only talent but also the spirit of the Lakers. He was quoted saying, “I think he’s been as important as any player on our team. I felt like he was the best player on the floor tonight, and that's saying a lot.”
Despite their injuries, the Lakers' depth proved formidable against Indiana. While the Pacers faced their own challenges, missing star center Myles Turner due to a head injury, Pascal Siakam managed to score 23 points but struggled with his shooting, hitting only six of 15 attempts from the field.
Looking forward, both James and Dončić are expected to return for the Lakers’ upcoming game against the Utah Jazz on Monday night. The Lakers improved their season record to 31-19 with this victory and are currently trending upward, having won their last five games.
The atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena was electric as fans celebrated Reaves' extraordinary night. Chants of “M-V-P!” echoed through the stands, embracing the dynamic play of the young guard who had claimed his spot among Lakers legends like Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson. Reaves reflected on his rise, stating, “It’s surreal, because I grew up a huge Kobe fan, so I was automatically a Laker fan. Just to be able to put on the uniform and compete, and then have games where my name is with those guys, is special.”
This game not only marked another victory but also highlighted the Lakers’ resilience as they navigate through injuries and roster changes. The future looks promising with the return of Dončić and James, and fans are excited about what this team can accomplish as they aim for the playoffs.
Next up for the Lakers is their highly anticipated matchup against the Utah Jazz, where they hope to continue their winning streak with the anticipated debut of Luka Dončić. Meanwhile, the Lakers’ management and coaching continue to adapt to their shifting team dynamics, keeping them competitive in the Western Conference.