Austin Reaves continued his remarkable scoring surge with another standout performance, dropping 41 points in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 122–108 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on October 27, 2025. His effort came less than 24 hours after he set a new career high with 51 points against the Sacramento Kings, marking one of the most impressive back-to-back scoring stretches of his young career.
Despite his offensive brilliance, the Lakers could not overcome the absence of several stars. With LeBron James and Luka Dončić both sidelined, Reaves shouldered nearly the entire offensive load. Portland’s defense took advantage of the short-handed Lakers, forcing 25 turnovers that led to 28 fast-break points. The fatigue of a back-to-back was evident, and the Lakers’ supporting cast struggled to maintain consistency on both ends of the floor.
Reaves played 39 minutes against Portland, shooting 13-for-22 from the field and 12-for-14 from the free-throw line, while adding 4 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. However, his heavy workload also led to 8 turnovers as he faced double teams and relentless defensive pressure throughout the night. This came after his unforgettable 51-point masterpiece against the Kings, where he went 12-for-22 from the floor, hit 6 three-pointers, and sank 21 of 22 free throws while adding 11 rebounds and 9 assists.
Across both games, Reaves showed not only his scoring touch but also his ability to carry a team under immense pressure. His performances stood as proof of his growing confidence and importance to the Lakers’ rotation, even in the absence of their superstars.
The 51-point performance against Sacramento was the third 50-point game recorded in the NBA this season and the first of Reaves’ career. His 41-point outing the following night marked the third time in his career he has reached the 40-point plateau, further solidifying his emergence as one of the league’s most improved scorers.
Though the Lakers fell to Portland and their record took a hit, Reaves’ back-to-back displays were nothing short of extraordinary. He showcased his poise, shooting efficiency, and versatility as both a scorer and facilitator. For a team ravaged by injuries, Reaves’ determination to lead on consecutive nights offered a rare silver lining in an otherwise frustrating stretch.
After the game, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham praised Reaves for his resilience and leadership. “Austin gave us everything he had,” Ham said. “He’s exhausted, but he refuses to back down. That’s what you want to see from your players, especially in moments like this.”
Reaves’ back-to-back scoring explosion may not have delivered wins, but it revealed a player growing into his own spotlight. With his confidence soaring and his role expanding, he continues to prove that he is not just a reliable role player, but a legitimate offensive weapon capable of delivering under pressure.
As the Lakers await the return of their stars, Austin Reaves’ performances have offered something invaluable belief that, even in the toughest stretches, there is still a player ready to fight, create, and keep the team alive.
