The Los Angeles Lakers entered the second quarter of their Oct. 25 clash with the Utah Jazz with every reason to lose hope. Utah scored 47 points in the first quarter alone and Los Angeles didn't seem to have any answered in regard to slowing them down, let alone erasing an 18-point deficit. Austin Reaves didn't appear too worried.
Though it was Doncic's 52 points, 10 assists, eight rebounds, and two steals that will justifiably make headlines, Reaves led the early stages of the comeback and showed why the Lakers believe in him as a No. 2.
Reaves was sensational against the Jazz, posting 29 points, four assists, and two blocks on 7-of-12 shooting from the field. He dominated the second quarter, scoring 15 of the team's first 21 points as Los Angeles erased Utah's lead and ultimately built a 74-71 advantage going into halftime.
Once Reaves had gotten the Lakers back on track, Doncic took over and did what he does as an all-time great first option—the proverbial lob and finish in four-quarter form.
It was a welcome reminder of why the Lakers felt confident enough in Reaves continuing to improve that they gave him a four-year, $180 million contract. Many labeled it an overpay considering he's never been an All-Star, let alone spent a full season as a No. 2 player, but he and Doncic have shown flashes of elite chemistry.
That was on full display against Utah and should continue to be a factor as the Lakers run their offense through a backcourt to which few compare.
Austin Reaves sparked the comeback, Luka Doncic finished the job
Reaves deserves credit for the simple fact that he's gotten better every year that he's been in the NBA. That includes the fact that he's improved his points per game average between each of his five seasons in the Association, and has even become a strong off-ball defender.
It's admittedly fair to question if $45 million per season is a fair tally for a player who has yet to be an All-Star or face the nightly pressure of a No. 2, but the Lakers know what type of talent they have.
Reaves isn't just talented and productive, but one of the craftiest scores in the NBA. The 6'5" shooting guard has a top-tier handle that he puts to use in tight spaces, thus creating an all but endless array of angles to score from within the three-point line.
Though Reaves won't punish top-tier defenders with his athleticism, it's his ability to combine moves on the drive that makes him such a dynamic threat at the rim, beyond the arc, and everywhere in between.
That much as been on display throughout the Lakers' first three games in 2026-27. He's helped the team secure a 3-0 record by averaging 26.7 points per game. Beyond the numbers, he's proven capable of leading the offense when Doncic is off the court and complementing the superstar when they share it.
In essence, Reaves has been the second option that the Lakers paid for by virtue of the simple fact that he can complement the star and play like a situational No. 1.
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