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Without LeBron and AD, Austin Reaves scores a season-high as the Lakers defeat the Celtics
The atmosphere at TD Garden on a Thursday didn’t initially hint at what unfolded – Rui Hachimura’s tongue-wagging, Austin Reaves confidently launching shots from 40 feet, Jaxson Hayes dominating the airspace above the rim, and D’Angelo Russell exhibiting prowess on both ends of the court. However, the absence of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, observed in street clothes at the end of the bench, conveyed a clear message: this wouldn’t be the Lakers’ night.
Yet, in a sudden turn of events, it became just that.
“We’re all talented players,” expressed Reaves, seizing the opportunity to showcase their abilities. Led by Reaves’ stellar offensive performance, the shorthanded Lakers orchestrated an upset, defeating the full-strength Celtics 114-105, marking only the Celtics’ third home loss this season. Remarkably, the Lakers found themselves trailing just once after the first quarter.
Russell, reflecting on the game, commended the collective effort, stating, “I thought everybody was dangerous tonight. Everybody was aggressive. It was a joy to watch.” Reaves emerged as the standout performer, tallying 32 points, a career-high achieved with seven three-pointers. Russell contributed significantly with 16 points and 14 assists, showcasing not only offensive prowess but also strong defensive skills. Hayes, in a personal best as a Laker, posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Hachimura added 15 off the bench.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham highlighted the team’s mindset going into the game, emphasizing a collective effort in the absence of their star players. “I just think it came from the guys knowing that no one probably believed that we had a chance tonight. And I told them before the game: no one man has to step up and carry the big load that our two captains not being there presents,” Ham said.
He stressed the importance of a team effort, urging players to play for one another and emphasizing that mistakes were acceptable as long as they played with intensity. The Lakers embraced this philosophy, turning the challenge of missing key players into an opportunity for collective growth. Ham remarked, “Everybody just play for one another, play for one another. The only mistake you can make is not playing hard. We’ll figure the rest out. And we did that.”
Reaves’ outstanding performance was not just a personal triumph but a testament to the Lakers’ resilience and depth. The victory underscored the team’s ability to rise to the occasion, demonstrating that every player on the roster could contribute meaningfully when called upon. Russell’s dual impact on offense and defense, along with the impressive performances from Hayes and Hachimura, showcased a Lakers team that refused to be overshadowed by the absence of its marquee stars.
In the end, what appeared to be an unlikely victory against a formidable opponent became a testament to the Lakers’ collective spirit and their ability to seize opportunities. The underdog Lakers, fueled by determination and teamwork, left TD Garden with a surprising win that echoed far beyond the individual accomplishments of the players on the court.
The Lakers, already grappling with a season plagued by various injuries, faced another setback during Thursday’s first half when Jarred Vanderbilt suffered a non-contact right foot injury, forcing him to exit the court. Despite negative X-rays, Vanderbilt did not return to the game, adding to the team’s injury woes.
Throughout the season, the Lakers have been without key players for extended periods, such as Gabe Vincent’s prolonged absence and Jarred Vanderbilt missing 20 games at the beginning of the season due to a left foot injury. The continuous injuries have deprived the Lakers of having their complete roster for a substantial stretch, making it challenging for them to assess their team dynamics accurately. With the NBA trade deadline just a week away, the Lakers find themselves making decisions with less-than-ideal information.
In addressing the team’s approach to the trade deadline, Coach Darvin Ham emphasized starting with the needs of their two star players, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He stressed the importance of understanding the supporting cast required for James and Davis to perform at their best and building the team around those needs.
However, Thursday’s game presented a different perspective, with other Lakers players stepping up and showcasing their capabilities for expanded roles, increased aggression, and a more significant standing in the team’s plans when James and Davis return. Ham encouraged the team not to feel mentally constrained in catering exclusively to James and Davis, acknowledging their greatness but emphasizing the importance of everyone playing the right way and making the correct plays when opportunities arise.
As the Lakers navigate through injuries and approach the trade deadline, the focus is not only on the immediate challenges but also on developing a well-rounded team that can thrive when their star players return to the lineup. The injuries have prompted a reevaluation of the team’s dynamics, with other players seizing the opportunity to make their case for increased contributions and responsibilities within the team.
