LeBron James was pretty bummed when Luka Dončić missed a free throw in the closing moments of a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, preventing him from reaching the coveted 50-point mark. Just two days later, with Dončić sidelined by injury and a significant portion of the Lakers’ roster out, Austin Reaves stepped up with a phenomenal game, scoring 51 points, recording 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in a vital victory against the Sacramento Kings.

Dončić’s injury could see him out for at least a week, opening the door for Reaves to showcase his developing talent. Historically, only one team, the Denver Nuggets, had multiple players scoring 50 points in a game last season, making Reaves’ performance all the more noteworthy.

Unlike previous seasons, Reaves has improved dramatically, averaging nearly 23 points per game since February of the last season, positioning him as a potential All-Star hopeful. In a game where James has typically led with a high usage rate, the Lakers now face decisions about how to adjust their offensive strategy once James returns from his ongoing recovery from sciatica, predicted for mid-November.

Given his age and the injuries he faces, James might find himself in a more supportive role, allowing others like Reaves and Dončić to lead the charge offensively, while he focuses on tasks that elevate the team’s defensive play and overall effectiveness.

To maximize their chances of success, the Lakers must carefully reintegrate James into a system that has grown while he was sidelined. As Reaves and Dončić flourish, creating an offensive harmony that embraces James’ skills will be essential for the Lakers’ aspirations this season.