Reaves Steps up in James’ Absence as Lakers Win Double-Overtime Marathon

Austin Reaves (15) of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket against Khris Middleton (22) of the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half of a game in Milwaukee on March 26, 2024. Stacy Revere/Getty Images

MILWAUKEE—Staring at a double-digit deficit midway through the fourth quarter without superstar LeBron James available, Austin Reaves and the Los Angeles Lakers faced a clear choice.

“It was one of those moments that you could either flip the page to tomorrow, get ready for that game, or you could go out and compete 110 percent, and give yourself an opportunity, or at least try to give yourself an opportunity, to get back in the game,” Reaves said.