Austin Reaves Scores 43 Points as Lakers Beat Pistons Without Luka Doncic

Posted : 09 November 2026

Austin Reaves delivered a sensational performance to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 121-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday, scoring a season-high 43 points in the absence of Luka Doncic.

Reaves stepped into the spotlight with Doncic sidelined by lower-back tightness, producing an outstanding display against a Detroit side known for its defensive strength. The Lakers secured their fifth consecutive win, improving their season record to 9-2.

The 27-year-old guard finished with 43 points from 14-of-27 shooting, including four three-pointers from six attempts. He was also flawless from the free-throw line, converting all 11 attempts.

One of his most memorable moments came in the third quarter when he connected with an unusual three-point attempt that bounced off the backboard before dropping through the basket. Reaves admitted that the shot reminded him of the difficult attempts Doncic regularly makes.

“Honestly, when I stepped back and shot it, I was like, ‘This is some bulls--- Luka would shoot,’” Reaves said.

He insisted that the successful attempt was not intentional, joking that the result simply looked good on the statistics sheet.

With Doncic unavailable, Reaves took responsibility for directing the Lakers' offence, earning praise from head coach JJ Redick for his decision-making, aggression and ability to attack the basket.

Collin Sexton and Ziaire Williams also contributed 17 points apiece, while Walker Kessler recorded 12 points and 16 rebounds. Quentin Grimes added 12 points, helping Los Angeles establish an early advantage.

The Lakers made an impressive start, building a 38-14 lead in the opening quarter. However, Detroit gradually fought its way back into the contest, taking advantage of Reaves' time on the bench to reduce the deficit to just one point at 90-89 early in the fourth quarter.

Redick explained that he deliberately avoided rushing Reaves back onto the court, preferring to maintain a consistent rotation and allow his players sufficient rest.

Detroit's comeback effort was led by Daniss Jenkins, who scored a career-high 31 points, and Kevin Huerter, who added 24. Despite their contributions, the Pistons could not complete the turnaround as Los Angeles held on for the victory.

Reaves' performance was particularly important given Doncic's remarkable start to the season. The Slovenian superstar entered the game as the NBA's leading scorer, averaging 40.1 points per contest.

The Lakers have now won both games played without Doncic this season, demonstrating their ability to find alternative scoring options when their leading player is unavailable.

Kessler praised both guards after the game, highlighting their ability to produce difficult shots and influence winning performances. Reaves, however, remained modest about his outstanding display, describing himself as fortunate on the night.

Los Angeles will next face the Atlanta Hawks as it continues its road trip, with Doncic's availability expected to remain a key talking point.

Austin Reaves Scores 43 Points as Lakers Beat Pistons Without Luka Doncic

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