🏀 Reaves Drops 38, Doncic Shines Against Former Team as Lakers Beat Mavericks 129–119 in LA
Austin Reaves delivered one of the best performances of his young career, scoring 38 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 129–119 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. Luka Doncic added 35 points and 11 assists in his third matchup against the franchise that dealt him away 10 months ago.
The night also marked the long-anticipated return of Anthony Davis to Los Angeles — but this time wearing Mavericks blue. Davis finished with 13 points and 5 rebounds in just 17 minutes while operating under a minutes restriction.
🔥 Reaves & Luka Take Over Second Half
The Lakers’ dynamic duo exploded after halftime:
- Reaves: 19 second-half points, 6 made threes
- Doncic: 17 in the second half, 4 threes total
The Lakers used a massive 13–1 fourth-quarter run—featuring key baskets from Reaves and Deandre Ayton—to pull away after trailing with under eight minutes left.
LeBron James struggled early with only 2 points in the first half, but hit a clutch 3-pointer in the final minutes to help seal the Lakers’ sixth straight win. LA also completed a 4–0 sweep in NBA Cup group play, securing a home quarterfinal
Lakers💔 Davis’ Return: Warm Welcome, Limited Impact
Despite a restricted workload, Davis received a loud ovation from Lakers fans. The All-Star big man remains beloved in LA after winning a championship alongside LeBron.
His return did spark improved play from Dallas, but it wasn’t enough to avoid losing five of their last six.
Lakers
📊 Mavericks Highlights
- P.J. Washington: 22 points
- Ryan Nembhard: 17 points
- Max Christie: 13 points vs. his former team
- Rookie Cooper Flagg: 13 points, 11 assists, 7 rebounds — another all-around showcase
Even with standout guard play and more energy on defense, the Mavs faltered late, going nearly four minutes without a field goal during LA’s decisive run.
🎯 What’s Next
- Mavericks: Face the Clippers in LA on Saturday night
- Lakers: Host the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday