Not LeBron James or Luka Doncic: Former NBA champion reveals the Lakers’ X-factor ahead of playoffs

The Los Angeles Lakers fought hard to snag a narrow 120-119 victory over the Indiana Pacers, snapping a three-game losing streak. After an impressive performance from Luka Doncic and LeBron James hitting the game-winning shot, Kendrick Perkins, former NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, revealed that another player was the real X-factor for the Lakers.

Doncic led the way with 34 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while James, though not at his best, contributed 13 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, and ultimately hit the game-winner after a missed shot by Doncic.

While it was Doncic and James who teamed up for the final moments to secure the win, Perkins believes it’s Austin Reaves who is currently driving the Lakers’ success.

“Luka did his thing offensively, he put on a clinic, that’s what Luka does,” Perkins said on ESPN. “Rui Hachimura hit some big threes in the fourth quarter. Austin Reaves was the X-factor [in the win over the Pacers]. It’s the trust that JJ Redick, LeBron James, and Luka Doncic have in him”.

Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images)

The 2008 NBA champion with the Celtics believes Reaves could be a crucial factor for the Lakers during their playoff run. “If the Lakers are going to make a deep run in the postseason, it’s going to be because of games like this behind Austin Reaves,” Perkins added.

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Doncic praises Reaves’ versatility

Former Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic also expressed his admiration for Reaves, praising his adaptability to different roles. In the Lakers’ system, Reaves has seamlessly shifted from being a secondary option to a primary one.

“It’s amazing for him. You never see him complain about what role he’s playing, whether he’s the No. 1 option, No. 2 or No. 3,” Dončić said via Spectrum Sports Net. “He never complains, just the way he sticks with it, it’s amazing to see. That’s a guy you want on your team”.

Austin Reaves’ breakout season

Despite being the third option behind LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves has been one of the brightest stars for the Lakers this NBA season. The 26-year-old guard is having a career year, posting his best numbers to date. Having appeared in 64 of 72 games, Reaves is averaging 19.7 points, 6.0 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.1 steals—career highs across the board.