Austin Reaves' Heroics Continue to Keep Lakers Afloat During Injuries

If someone told you that LeBron James and Luka Doncic were already injured, you may think that the Lakers would be struggling greatly. Luka played the first two games of the season before getting sidelined with a couple of minor injuries, while LeBron has yet to play a game. And somehow, the Lakers have remained afloat despite missing their two best players. 

Luka and LeBron aren’t the only Lakers missing games, either. It seems like almost half of their roster has already seen their name on the Lakers' injury report. Instead of thriving early in the season, the Lakers find themselves in survival mode.

Since Luka left the lineup, the Lakers are 2–1, making them 3–2 on the season. They seem to be surviving just fine. That’s all because of the incredible play of Austin Reaves. 

Reaves, often forgotten as the third star in Los Angeles, has been one of the most consistent players in the league over the last few seasons. Last year, Reaves crossed the 20-point-per-game average threshold, and some thought he might be forgotten with the addition of Luka.

You can't forget him now. Reaves' heroics over the last three games are what have been keeping this team afloat. Over the last three games, Reaves has averaged 40 points per game while leading the Lakers to two wins. He had a 51-point, 11-rebound, nine-assist game during that time, as well as a 28-point, 16-assist game Wednesday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Reaves might not be able to keep up this level of play. However, if the Lakers continue to struggle with injuries, they might need it.