Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves lead LeBron James-less Lakers to thrilling double-overtime victory over Bucks
In a stunning comeback effort, the Los Angeles Lakers, missing LeBron James due to ankle soreness, clawed their way back from a 19-point deficit in the final eight minutes of regulation to secure a thrilling 128-124 double-overtime win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday at Fiserv Forum.
Playing an extraordinary 52 minutes, Anthony Davis showcased his dominance with an impressive stat line of 34 points, 23 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals. Despite showing signs of fatigue late in the game, the 31-year-old delivered crucial defensive plays, including two vital blocks against Bucks’ Damian Lillard to keep the Lakers in contention.
Meanwhile, Austin Reaves stepped up in James’ absence, recording a triple-double with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, along with just one turnover. The 25-year-old guard displayed his clutch performance, scoring 15 points in the final two-quarters of regulation and nine more in the overtime, including a decisive three-pointer to secure the lead for the Lakers.
Reflecting on the thrilling victory, Reaves expressed his joy, stating, “This is the stuff you dream about as a kid, being on the road with your guys, battling out an amazing team, and having opportunities to make big shots.”
D’Angelo Russell also made significant contributions, bouncing back from a slow start to finish with 29 points, seven rebounds, and 12 assists.
Despite a stellar performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who tallied 29 points, 21 rebounds, 11 assists, and three blocks, the Bucks fell short in their efforts.
The win marks the Lakers’ fourth consecutive victory as they strive for a playoff berth. Currently sitting ninth in the Western Conference standings, the Lakers are within striking distance of climbing into the top half of the Play-In bracket, trailing the Sacramento Kings and the Phoenix Suns by just two games.
With ambitions to secure a higher seed, the Lakers will face the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, while the Bucks aim to rebound against the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday.
