Despite a disappointing night, former player Derek Fisher was left impressed by the performance of one LA Lakers star in their 115-146 loss to the Chicago Bulls.
In what was a return game for LeBron James, the Purple and Gold looked in control after the first half, but the Bulls guard Coby White wreaked havoc to lead the Eastern Conference side to a win on the road.
Luka Doncic once again showed out for the Lakers with 34 points, eight boards and six assists, while James added 17 points in his first game back.
The defense from the LA Lakers was shocking and that led to them conceding the most points in a non overtime game at home since 1984.
Despite the result, there was one player who impressed Fisher and he has been special for the team this whole season.
Fisher shows Austin Reaves appreciation
Austin Reaves scored 25 points on a highly efficient 66.7% shooting against the Bulls.
He tried his best to keep the team in the game, but the Bulls were determined on the night.
Speaking about him during his post-game analysis on ‘Access Sportsnet,’ Fisher said: “I was listening to a couple of podcasts and different interviews.
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“And it’s easy to see why, like we all gravitate towards Austin and wanting him to do well, and seeing him be successful out there, because he’s all about just winning and doing things the right way.”
“So when you give off that type of energy when you pour into your team and your teammates, and you’re not really doing it for your own satisfaction and glory. It’s really about winning something bigger than you, most of the time, this is what comes back.
Fisher also recognised Reaves’ highly efficient night scoring for the Lakers.
“Austin’s ability to be efficient like this tonight, I know he talked recently about, I think he’s shooting 44 45% this season. and he wants to increase that and get into the high 40s.
“You know he wants to be a 50% shooter from the field. He wants to be one of those 50/40/90 Guys, and performances like tonight show that he’s more than capable of,” he added.
Reaves is a key player for the LA Lakers
Reaves has been a leader for the team alongside LeBron James and the other veterans.
During the two-week absence of James, Reaves alongside Doncic put on some big performances to help the Purple and Gold lodge a few wins.
He is averaging 23.4 PPG, 5.9 APG and 5.7 RPG, all while shooting an impressive 69.2% from the field in his last ten games.
His ability to take tough shots and step in when James and Doncic are out make him an invaluable asset to the roster.
With 12 games to go, the Lakers will be happy they have all their starters back, but Reaves has done extremely well to fill the void left by the others.
He has elevated his game this season as well and heading into the playoffs, the Lakers will be confident they have another player who can give them 15-20 points.