Lakers defeat Pistons 121-116 as Austin Reaves scores 43
The Los Angeles Lakers held off the Detroit Pistons 121-116, with Austin Reaves delivering a 43-point performance and Walker Kessler recording 16 rebounds.
Los Angeles secured a 121-116 victory over Detroit on Sunday, relying on a balanced effort after their star player was unavailable. Austin Reaves led the scoring with 43 points on 14-of-27 shooting, including four of six from three-point range and a perfect free-throw record. Walker Kessler contributed a double-double with 12 points and 16 rebounds, five of which came on the offensive glass, and added four blocks.
Quentin Grimes added 12 points, primarily in the first quarter, while Ziaire Williams scored 17 points and hit several key shots in the closing minutes. Collin Sexton and Jake LaRavia each posted 17 and 5 points respectively, with LaRavia handling the ball more often in the second half. Jarred Vanderbilt recorded 10 rebounds in limited minutes, and Sandro Mamukelashvili contributed 7 points.
Defensively, the Lakers forced the Pistons to play from behind for most of the game, a strategy highlighted by coach JJ Redick, who was praised for preparing the team mentally and schematically. The win marked the team's third consecutive game without their designated superstar, and the coaching staff noted the importance of maintaining effort and energy across the roster.
The Pistons' roster featured several inactive players, including Luka Dončić and others, while the Lakers listed Bronny James, Cameron Carr, Jaden Hardy, Kevon Looney and Lawson Lovering as DNPs.