Unprecedented Record at the Lakers: Austin Reaves Scores 15+ Three-Pointers in 2 Games – Could He Be LeBron James’ New Weapon?

The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into the NBA playoffs with renewed confidence, and a big reason for that momentum is Austin Reaves, who has elevated his game to another level in recent weeks. With back-to-back dominant performances, Reaves not only shattered expectations but also set a new franchise record that puts him in elite company within Lakers history. His hot streak from beyond the arc and all-around offensive explosion are giving Lakers fans hope for a deep postseason run—and making opponents rethink their defensive strategies.

Austin Reaves Sets Franchise Record for Three-Pointers

In back-to-back games against elite competition, Austin Reaves made history by becoming the first Los Angeles Lakers player to make 15 three-pointers over a two-game stretch. On Thursday, facing the Golden State Warriors, he knocked down 9 of 16 attempts from beyond the arc. Just one night later, he followed up with 6 of 9 threes on Friday, proving that his previous performance wasn’t a fluke—it was a signal.

This achievement is monumental in the context of Lakers franchise history, which has seen great shooters like Kobe Bryant, Nick Van Exel, and more recently, D’Angelo Russell and Malik Beasley. But none of them have matched Reaves’ shooting output over two consecutive games.

The record-breaking stat line is more than a historical footnote. It’s a reflection of Reaves’ improved shooting mechanics, increased confidence, and a more defined role within the Lakers’ offense. His emergence as a legitimate scoring threat has forced defenses to adjust and is giving LeBron James and Anthony Davis more room to operate.

Reaves’ Scoring Surge Has Come at the Perfect Time

Over the last 13 games, Austin Reaves has averaged 26.6 points per game, shooting an impressive 52.9% from the field and 41.6% from three-point range. These are elite-level numbers, not just for a role player—but for any starter in the league. His consistency during this stretch has played a major role in the Lakers securing critical wins down the stretch of the season.

What’s even more impressive is the timing. The NBA postseason is approaching fast, and teams are fine-tuning their rotations. Reaves has made it impossible for head coach Darvin Ham to ignore his impact. His scoring is no longer a bonus—it’s a necessity for a Lakers team that needs efficient perimeter offense to compete in the stacked Western Conference.

Reaves’ season average has now climbed to 20.2 points per game, making him one of three Lakers to average over 20 this season—alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Having three 20+ point scorers is a luxury not every playoff team can boast, and it gives the Lakers a multifaceted offensive arsenal that will be critical in postseason play.

How Austin Reaves Improved His Three-Point Shot

For much of the season, Reaves’ three-point shot was serviceable but inconsistent. However, he has clearly turned a corner. His recent shooting spree is the result of technical adjustments and increased shot volume. With defenders collapsing on LeBron and Davis, Reaves has learned to find open pockets on the floor and release quickly off the catch.

He’s also improved his off-the-dribble shooting. Unlike many wings who rely solely on spot-up opportunities, Reaves is now comfortable pulling up from deep in transition or off a screen. This expanded offensive skill set makes him difficult to guard and allows the Lakers to run more diverse offensive sets.

What separates Reaves from many emerging scorers is his basketball IQ. He doesn’t force shots, and he understands the importance of spacing and ball movement. When given room, he’ll shoot with confidence. When the defense closes out, he can drive and dish or finish through contact. It’s this versatility that makes him such a valuable piece of the Lakers’ playoff puzzle.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis React to Reaves’ Breakout

LeBron James has long been a fan of Austin Reaves’ game, praising his poise and confidence since his rookie year. But even LeBron seemed stunned by Reaves’ latest performances. After Reaves’ 30-point night against the Warriors, James said, “That kid can ball. He’s not scared of the moment, and we need that.”

Anthony Davis echoed the sentiment, adding, “He makes the right reads, the right plays, and now he’s knocking down shots at an elite clip. That opens up everything for us.”

The respect from two future Hall of Famers isn’t just lip service. Reaves has earned his minutes and his touches. In fact, the Lakers have started running more late-game sets through Reaves, allowing him to either create off the dribble or draw a second defender to free up LeBron or Davis.

This trust is crucial. In the playoffs, when every possession is magnified, having a third scoring option who can stay composed under pressure is the difference between early elimination and a deep playoff run.

A New Lakers Big Three? Reaves Joins LeBron and AD in Elite Company

With his current level of play, Austin Reaves is no longer a complementary player—he’s a star in his own right. The Lakers now officially boast a trio of scorers averaging 20+ points per game. This is a significant milestone, not just for Reaves personally, but for the identity of the team.

Having three consistent scorers means opposing defenses can no longer key in on just LeBron or AD. Reaves’ ability to stretch the floor and create off the bounce gives the Lakers lineup flexibility and allows for more creative rotations. He can play alongside LeBron and AD or anchor the second unit when one of the stars rests.

This dynamic also reduces the pressure on the aging James, who can now take a more strategic role and conserve energy for critical moments. Reaves’ emergence helps prolong LeBron’s productivity and allows the Lakers to manage Davis’ minutes more effectively.

What Reaves’ Rise Means for the Lakers’ Playoff Strategy

The Lakers’ path through the Western Conference won’t be easy. They’ll likely face tough matchups against the likes of the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, or Golden State Warriors. But Austin Reaves gives them a wildcard—a player who can explode for 30+ on any given night and shift the momentum of a game.

Expect to see Reaves playing heavy minutes, particularly in closing lineups. He has the shooting to space the floor, the playmaking to serve as a secondary ball handler, and the toughness to guard multiple positions. His presence allows Darvin Ham to run dual pick-and-roll sets, use LeBron as a decoy, or let Reaves initiate the offense.

In a league where shooting and versatility win championships, Reaves has become one of the Lakers’ most important weapons. His growth also forces opponents to change their scouting reports, and that unpredictability is invaluable in a playoff series.

Fan Reaction and Social Media Buzz

Lakers fans have embraced Reaves not only for his talent but for his underdog journey. From going undrafted to setting a franchise record, his rise feels like a Hollywood script—fitting for a team that plays in the entertainment capital of the world.

Social media exploded after his two-game three-point record, with hashtags like #ReavesSeason and #AR15 trending on Twitter. NBA analysts and former players have praised his footwork, shooting form, and composure. He’s quickly becoming one of the league’s favorite rising stars—and a player that fans across the country are rooting for.

Conclusion: Austin Reaves Is More Than a Role Player—He’s a Game-Changer

Austin Reaves has gone from overlooked prospect to one of the most exciting and effective players in the NBA. His recent performances, capped by a historic three-point record, have transformed him into a cornerstone for the Los Angeles Lakers at just the right time.

As the playoffs approach, his presence changes everything. He alleviates pressure from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, gives the Lakers a reliable perimeter scorer, and raises the team’s overall ceiling. In the pressure cooker of the NBA postseason, Reaves could be the X-factor that makes all the difference.

If he continues this level of play, Austin Reaves won’t just be setting records—he’ll be making history.