Los Angeles Lakers take control early against Miami Heat in 130-121 win
The Los Angeles Lakers led from start to finish against the Miami Heat, picking up a comfortable 130-121 win. They were in control throughout, although the Heat did cut into their lead at times.
The Lakers had some help early on, with the first quarter setting them up for a strong finish.
Despite struggles from deep, Doncic and Reaves lift Lakers with playmaking
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves both struggled from beyond the arc, but their playmaking helped drive the Los Angeles Lakers to victory over the Miami Heat.
Doncic finished with a triple-double – 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists – while Reaves added 26 points and matched his career-high with 11 assists. Even though they combined for just five of their team’s 18 three-pointers on a poor shooting night, their ball movement got the job done. They went a combined five-for-25 from long range, yet were still +16 in total plus-minus.
When shots weren’t falling, both players adjusted by setting up teammates. The rest of the Lakers capitalised too, hitting ten threes on good looks that were often created by Reaves or Doncic drawing in defenders.
Jake LaRavia building case for larger role in Lakers offense
Following Jake LaRavia’s impressive 27-point performance against the Timberwolves, there were growing belief that he could be a step up from Dorian Finney-Smith for the Lakers.
Last week, Austin Reaves described LaRavia’s game as ‘monstrous,’ and he backed it up again tonight with another strong showing. He finished with 25 points, added 8 rebounds, and picked up 4 steals.
The LA Lakers should consider giving Jake LaRavia more opportunities to shine, as he continues to show improvement with every game.
Marcus Smart sets the tone on defence
The Lakers forced 14 steals against Miami, disrupting the Heat offence throughout the game. Marcus Smart was at the heart of it, picking up two steals and setting a clear defensive tone early on.
In the first half, Smart stood out with several strong plays, including a block on Jaime Jaquez Jr. that fired up his teammates.
Others picked up where he left off. Luka Doncic, Jake LaRavia and Bronny James each finished with three or more steals as LA’s defence helped carry them through.
READ MORE: Kevin Garnett explains why he’s changed his mind about the Golden State Warriors
The Lakers are growing into a solid title contender in the Western Conference despite playing without LeBron James, Deandre Ayton and Gabe Vincent.
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