Austin Reaves Has Game-Winning Putback To Lead Lakers To Victory Over Suns In Las Vegas Summer League Opener
(Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Lakers opened up Las Vegas Summer League action on Sunday night with a rematch from this past year’s postseason against the Phoenix Suns.

In what was a close, back-and-forth affair, the Lakers were able to complete a comeback thanks to a putback by Austin Reaves with 2.5 seconds remaining to secure a 73-72 victory.

The Lakers split their two games in Sacramento in the California Classic, so the Summer League team now moves to 1-2.

One of the Lakers’ two-way players, Reaves, got off to a good start as the guard out of Oklahoma drilled an early three and scored the team’s first five points.

It was clear early on that he and Devontae Cacok were the most comfortable out there on the floor with the latter already having Summer League and NBA experience.

Cacok finished with a team-high 13 points to go along with six rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks. Reaves had 11 big points, including the game-winning in addition to four rebounds and an assist.

If it wasn’t for Mac McClung though, Reaves would’ve never been in a position to hit the game-winner as he had a few big buckets late, including a mid-range shot to tie the game. The Suns then made one free throw, setting the stage for Reaves’ game-winner.

Phoenix had one last chance to win it at the buzzer, but their 3-point attempt fell short, securing a win for the Lakers.

Under the new Summer League rules, there are no playoffs, just a championship game with the two best teams after everyone plays four games. So this was a must-win for the Lakers to keep their championship hopes alive and they were able to sneak one out over a tough Phoenix team.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

Lakers News: LeBron James Discusses ‘Space Jam 2’ Release Date Amid 2019-20 NBA Season Hiatus

In the midst of leading the Los Angeles Lakers to championship contention, LeBron James is also preparing for…

Lakers Vs. Grizzlies TV Info & Preview: Contrasting Styles Meet Again As L.A. Looks To Win 7th In A Row At Staples Center

Just over two weeks removed from an impressive win at FedEx Forum, the Los Angeles Lakers again matchup with the Memphis Grizzlies. This time at Staples Center, where the…

Recap: Anthony Davis Comes Up Big Late To Lead Lakers To Comeback Victory Over Pacers

The Los Angeles Lakers continued their road trip on Thursday night, looking for revenge against the Indiana Pacers…

Lakers Video: Metta Sandiford-Artest Speaks About Mental Health Awareness

As part of Mental Health Awareness Day, the Los Angeles Lakers recently spotlighted one of their most vocal…