Austin Reaves Candidly Addresses Lakers’ Crushing Defeat Against Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their dominance with a stunning 29-point victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at the Paycom Center. This significant win highlights the Thunder’s excellent form as they maintain an impressive 12-1 record in the NBA.
Austin Reaves’ Reflection on Lakers’ Loss
After the loss, Lakers player Austin Reaves shared his candid thoughts on the game. He acknowledged that the team struggled to perform cohesively. “We didn’t play well as a team,” Reaves stated, emphasizing the need for improvement in team chemistry.
Key Statistics from the Game
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 30 points, 9 assists
- Isaiah Joe: 21 points off the bench
- Austin Reaves: 13 points, 3 assists
- Luka Dončić: 19 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists
- Lakers turnovers: 20
- Thunder points from turnovers: 26
- Pain points: Thunder 48, Lakers 30
Reaves admitted that the Thunder executed their game plan effectively, something that the Lakers had hoped to emulate. He stated, “They did what we wanted to do. Just to be blunt, they beat the sh*t out of us tonight.” Despite the defeat, Reaves expressed confidence in the team’s potential for improvement.
Lakers’ Struggles Against Thunder’s Defense
Both Reaves and Dončić faced challenges against the Thunder’s formidable defense. Reaves, who had been averaging 30.3 points and nine assists per game prior to this match, was limited in his scoring opportunities. Dončić, despite his excellent season averages, also struggled to find his rhythm against Oklahoma City’s pressure.
What Lies Ahead for the Lakers
The Lakers, now with an 8-4 record, have slipped to fifth place in the Western Conference standings. They are set to regroup in their next game against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans, who currently sit at 2-9.
This game serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the NBA and the sheer talent within teams like the Thunder. With a strong start to the season, the Thunder look poised to continue their success, while the Lakers work to regain their footing.
