The discussion continues to revolve around Lakers star Luka Doncic and Dallas standout Anthony Davis, who were involved in one of the NBA’s most talked-about trades. Since the Mavericks surprised everyone last February by sending the highly talented Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for the versatile Davis, their careers have been intertwined.
However, on Friday night, Doncic shared the limelight with Austin Reeves, the Lakers’ brightest emerging star. In the Lakers’ 129-119 victory over the Mavericks, the duo combined for 73 points, with Reeves outscoring his backcourt partner Doncic.
Reeves showcased impressive efficiency, hitting 12 of 15 shots from the field, 6 of 8 from beyond the arc, and grabbing eight rebounds to tally 38 points. The fans even chanted “MVP!” as Reeves sank two free throws midway through the fourth quarter, highlighting his dominant performance.
Reeves said, “It felt good to finally make a three-pointer. Luka gets a lot of attention, and LeBron James obviously draws most of it too. My role is to find open spots and make key shots, finishing off the game strongly.”
Doncic also contributed effectively, scoring 35 points against his former Mavericks team, shooting 10 of 17 from the field, 4 of 9 from three-point range, and converting all 11 free throws. He added 11 assists and five rebounds, helping extend the Lakers’ winning streak to six games.
While playing against Dallas doesn’t sting as much as the first time, Doncic expressed his lasting affection for the franchise. “It’s a bit easier now, but games against Dallas will always hold special meaning for me. I still have many friends there,” he said.
The Lakers completed a perfect 4-0 run in NBA Cup Group B contests, earning home court advantage for the quarterfinals where they’ll face the San Antonio Spurs on December 10th. They also have upcoming back-to-back games at home against the Pelicans and Suns, followed by road games against Toronto, Boston, and Philadelphia before returning for a single-elimination matchup with the Spurs.
Reeves emphasized, “Whether it’s a cup game or not, we just want to win and leave with the best record possible.”
Davis, returning after missing 14 games due to a strained left calf, posted 12 points, five rebounds, and five assists in his first Lakers game since the trade. Deandre Ayton, who sat out Tuesday’s game against the Clippers due to a right knee contusion, scored 17 points with eight rebounds. Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 draft pick, contributed 13 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds.
Regarding the NBA Cup court, the Lakers opted not to use their special yellow court during the group stage game against Dallas due to concerns about its slippery surface. After debuting the court in a win over the Clippers, Doncic noted in his postgame interview that the floor was dangerously slick. The Lakers reported the issue, and court technicians ruled it unplayable for the group finals. The court may be repaired in time for the quarterfinals.
Doncic expressed appreciation for the Lakers and league’s quick action, stating, “I’m grateful they changed the court so we could stay healthy.”
Ayton, impressed with Reeves’ performance, remarked, “He was scoring tough baskets aggressively under the rim, even with our big guys around. I have to give him credit; I’ve been watching him since I joined.”
This article was originally published by the Los Angeles Times.
Fan Take: This game highlighted how key players like Austin Reeves are rising to prominence, showing the Lakers’ depth beyond the big names. It underscores the evolving nature of NBA rosters and how trades can reshape team dynamics, keeping fans excited about the league’s future.
