Austin Reaves Scores Career-High 51 Points in Lakers’ Victory Over Kings

On October 26, 2025, Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves delivered a career-best performance, scoring 51 points to lead his team to a 127-120 win against the Sacramento Kings. With star players Luka Dončić and LeBron James sidelined due to injuries, Reaves stepped up, adding 11 rebounds and nine assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. He also made six three-pointers, including three crucial shots in the fourth quarter that helped the Lakers overturn a late deficit. Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 15 rebounds, while Rui Hachimura added 18 points. The Lakers capitalized on free throws, outscoring the Kings 41-12 from the line. Sacramento’s Zach LaVine led his team with 32 points.

Contract Extension Declined

In June 2025, Reaves declined a four-year, $89.2 million contract extension from the Lakers, opting to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season. This decision allows him to pursue a more lucrative deal, with expectations of securing a contract worth approximately $30 million per year. Despite declining the extension, Reaves has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Lakers for the remainder of his career.

Injury and Recovery

Earlier in the year, on March 1, 2025, Reaves experienced right calf soreness during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers, leading to his early exit after nine minutes of play. An MRI revealed no serious injury, and he was listed as day-to-day, returning to the lineup shortly thereafter.

Upcoming Games

The Lakers are scheduled to play the Portland Trail Blazers on October 27, 2025, at 7:30 PM PDT at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Following this, they will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 29 and the Memphis Grizzlies on October 31. Reaves’ recent performance has generated excitement among fans and analysts, who are eager to see if he can maintain this high level of play in the upcoming games.