LeBron James and teammates admit ‘BIG NUTS’ Austin Reaves saved Lakers fate against Phoenix Suns

Austin Reaves delivers as the Lakers progress to the In Game tournament semi finals.

LeBron James and teammates admit ‘BIG NUTS’ Austin Reaves saved Lakers fate against Phoenix Suns

In the NBA In-Season Tournament quarterfinals, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a 106-103 victory over the Phoenix Suns, with Austin Reaves delivering a clutch performance. Fellow teammate D’Angelo Russell praised him for his remarkable display.

Joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent in 2021, Reaves has played a pivotal role in their successful season, contributing crucial three-pointers in their pursuit of another championship title. In July 2023, he solidified his commitment to the team by re-signing on a four-year, $54 million contract.

In a critical moment during the game against the Suns, Reaves secured a three-pointer with less than 18 seconds remaining, extending the Lakers’ lead to 105-101, thwarting the Suns’ chances of advancing to the semifinals in Vegas. In the post-game press room, Russell gave Reaves a shoutout, referring to his clutch play as having “big nuts” while Reaves was addressing the media.

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Preserving their unbeaten streak in the competition, the Lakers secured the victory, setting the stage for the semifinals against the New Orleans Pelicans. Reaves concluded the game with an impressive stat line, contributing 20 points, six rebounds, and two assists.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis heaps praise on Austin Reaves

In a post-game press conference following their advancement to the NBA In-Season tournament semifinals, LeBron James and Anthony Davis expressed their excitement about Austin Reaves’ stellar performance. James concluded the game with an impressive 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 11 assists, while Anthony Davis contributed 27 points, 15 rebounds, and a solitary assist.

Austin Reaves, LeBron James and Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves and LeBron James during a photo session (via X)

Anthony Davis while speaking with LeBron James said:

It’s Austin. He’s done it. Countless big shots for us. Big plays for us. We just have a lot of confidence in him and what he’s able to bring to our team. His ability to score at will. We feel like we can go to him at anytime

Excelling in his role as the team’s closer, Reaves consistently delivers clutch performances in crucial games for the Lakers. His season averages showcase his impact, with 14 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, coupled with an impressive 46.3% field goal accuracy.

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