Austin Reaves Shines as Lakers Beat Pacers

Austin Reaves delivered a career-high performance, scoring 45 points, with seven rebounds and seven assists, as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers 124-117. Playing without superstars LeBron James, who was sidelined with ankle soreness, and Luka Doncic, Reaves rose to the occasion, hitting 14 of 26 shots, including four three-pointers, and remaining perfect from the free-throw line. His efforts helped the Lakers extend their winning streak to five games, despite Indiana's strong comeback in the second half. Reaves' remarkable game placed him in the company of Lakers legends such as Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, and Kobe Bryant, who have achieved similar stat lines. Rui Hachimura supported with 24 points, while the Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam's 23 points. The Lakers now look forward to possibly debuting Doncic in their next game against the Utah Jazz.