Lakers’ Luka Doncic issued a 60-point challenge to Austin Reaves and almost did it

Austin Reaves he already knew what was expected of him when it was revealed that LeBron James would miss a lot of time with sciatica, but recently News about Luka Dončić’s injury force the Los Angeles Lakers guardian to enter lifeguard mode. Slovenian superstar himself invited Reaves scored 60 points in Sunday’s matchup with the Sacramento Kings, per Spectrum SportsNet’s Mike Trudell, a challenge the 27-year-old wasn’t far from accomplishing.

Reaves seamlessly took over the lead offensively, dropping 51 points on 12-of-22 shooting in a 127-120 road win. He was one assist shy of a triple-double and also recorded two steals, putting on a masterful effort when the Lakers needed him the most. Jared Vanderbilt also dared Reaves to step up in Sacramento and his request was granted.

“We went to the bus lines, I told him, ‘we need 50 from you tonight,'” the veteran forward told reporters, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “As you can see, he did it. We challenged him and he succeeded.”

“‘We need 50 of you tonight’ … and as you can see, he did it. Jared Vanderbilt on his challenge to Austin Reaves as they boarded the team bus before the Kings. Reaves scored 51 and the Lakers won.” pic.tvitter.com/rTvgtCCHGR

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 27, 2025

Austin Reaves stepped up in a big way for the Lakers

The undrafted talent out of Wichita State and Oklahoma was absolutely magnificent in the fourth quarter, knocking down three of his six 3-pointers in a two-and-a-half-minute span to give LA a 108-101 lead with 6:46 left. Then he basically wound up the arc at the V with a clutch display at the free throw line — going an incredible 21-of-22 from the charity stripe.

Although Reaves had already established himself as an undisputed difference maker years earlier, this sensational excursion at the Golden 1 Center illustrated how dangerous he can be as a No. 1 option. LeBron James is one of the two best players to ever step foot on a basketball court. Luka Doncic is an offensive savant who is expected to win at least one MVP crown before he retires. Sure, No. 15 is often overshadowed by the elite company he keeps, but he’s a vital member of this franchise.

The Lakers won’t compete in a loaded Western Conference unless Austin Reaves consistently competes at an influential level. He proved that in Sacramento, impressing Doncic, answering Vanderbilt’s request and instilling new confidence in the fans. Los Angeles hopes the 50-point rookie will have enough in the tank to lead a 2-1 team past the visiting Portland Trail Blazers (1-2) on Monday night.