Austin Reaves finally solved a problem that has hurt the Lakers all season. In a 116-103 win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, the guard recorded zero turnovers. This was only the second time he has done this feat this year. The team improved to a 7-2 record with three straight wins. Reaves finished with 21 points, four assists, and three rebounds in the road victory. His ball security has been a major worry for the club, but Wednesday showed real progress.
Reaves did not shy away from the talk about his mistakes. He averaged 4.1 turnovers per game, which is a career high and the third-highest figure in the entire NBA. He had five turnovers in the previous win over the Heat on Monday. In the four games before Wednesday, he averaged six turnovers each night. When a reporter asked about his struggles, Reaves laughed and said, “You got something to say? You can take credit for it .” He added, “Go ahead. Talking crazy before the game.” The friendly chat showed he owns his past errors but is ready to move on.
A Fresh Start for the Guard
The only other game without turnovers was the Oct. 27 defeat against the Trail Blazers. That loss makes the win against the Kings feel even more important for Reaves. He admitted the bad numbers earlier in the week. “I’ve had a lot all year,” he said. Then he promised to change it. “We’re gonna fix those. For you.” When asked if Wednesday was the start of fixing his issues, he gave a simple answer. “Yeah,” Reaves said, “I had zero.” This clear proof matters more than any promise he could make.
Bronny James Finds a New Spot
While Austin Reaves stepped up, his teammate Bronny James took a different path. He has played very little for the main team so far. According to ESPN, his five appearances yielded averages of just 2.4 minutes and 0.8 points. The move to the G League gives him a chance to play more and feel the game again. He has been much better in the G League over the last two seasons.
Bronny James has averaged 18.4 points on 49.6% shooting in the developmental league. In 25 games played there, he also recorded 4.4 assists and 4.0 rebounds. The team will play its season opener on Friday against the Salt Lake City Stars. Rookie Cameron Carr also got the same assignment to get more time on the floor. Carr has only played four minutes in the NBA since his debut. Both players need to get their feet wet to help the Lakers later. The G League stop gives them exactly what they need right now.
The team faces the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday at home. This game will show if Reaves can keep his ball safe for another night. A good showing there would prove Wednesday was more than a fluke. The Lakers are already sitting at the top of the Western Conference with a 7-2 record. They need their stars to stay sharp as the season gets longer. The win over Sacramento showed they can win on the road.
