Overview
- Luka Doncic returned Friday with 44 points in an NBA Cup win over the Grizzlies and said the offense can grow but the team must defend better to sustain success.
- With LeBron James and Doncic sidelined, Austin Reaves delivered a 51-point game, a 16-assist outing and a game-winner to establish himself as a primary creator.
- Head coach JJ Redick said he feels very comfortable with Reaves handling late-game decisions in James’ absence.
- Marc Stein reported there is no indication Reaves is looking beyond Los Angeles, with his current deal at about $13.9 million this season and a $14.9 million player option, and with reported scenarios ranging from a potential five-year, $108 million extension to higher open-market projections.
- Charles Barkley questioned whether Reaves can maintain recent 40-point-level scoring, predicting defenses will adjust as the Lakers reintegrate their stars.