In a tightly contested matchup in Los Angeles, the Lakers edged out the Clippers 125-122, despite a late turnover that allowed the Clippers a chance to tie. The decisive moment was Austin Reaves’ defensive charge on Bennedict Mathurin under two minutes left, which halted the Clippers’ comeback attempts and proved crucial in the Lakers’ win. Head coach JJ Redick highlighted this play as the turning point in the game.
Critical Sequence in the Final Minutes Shifts Momentum
Trailing by three points at 118-115, the Clippers’ Bennedict Mathurin aggressively drove to the basket in the closing moments. Reaves anticipated the move perfectly, drawing a charge that disrupted the Clippers’ momentum. Although the charge drew a foul that ultimately led to Reaves fouling out, it gave the Lakers vital breathing space late in the game. This defensive effort stood out after Luka Doncic missed a key floater shortly before.
Coach Redick Praises Defensive Effort Despite Controversy
Reaves had also attempted to draw a second defensive charge earlier in the game, but it was not awarded by officials. Redick expressed that this uncalled charge would have been an even more significant moment if it had gone in the Lakers’ favor.
“I thought the charge was the play of the game,”
Redick said.
“Frankly, the second charge would have been the play of the game if they made the right call, which they didn’t… that was a huge play given the circumstances.”
Reaves Returns to Starting Lineup with Strong Performance
This game marked Austin Reaves’ first start since recovering from a calf injury that had limited his minutes and relegated him to the bench. The Lakers announced ahead of the game that Reaves would no longer face a minutes restriction, allowing him to contribute more extensively. Reaves made the most of this opportunity, delivering a standout performance with 29 points, six rebounds, two assists, and two steals across 33 minutes on the floor.
Efficient Scoring and Impact on Both Ends
Reaves showcased offensive efficiency by shooting 9-of-15 overall, including 4-of-5 from beyond the arc and a flawless 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. Redick noted his sharp play despite a few turnovers, praising his overall night.
“Other than the two turnovers there, and the third in traffic, he just played a super efficient night.”
Season Context and Upcoming Challenges for the Lakers
Prior to this game, Reaves had averaged 25.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.0 steals per game over 28 appearances this season. His shooting splits stood at 50.8 percent from the field, 36.3 percent from three-point range, and 86.7 percent from the free-throw line. Had it not been for his calf injury, Reaves was on track to earn his first All-Star selection. As the Lakers continue their home stand, they prepare for a significant matchup against their longtime rivals, the Boston Celtics, followed by a game against the Orlando Magic before heading out on the road to close February.
Luka Doncic misses the clutch floater, and Austin Reaves takes the charge from Bennedict Mathurin at the other end, gets fouled out (the challenge was not successful)
With replays pic.twitter.com/mVKIwNXMhX
— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) February 21, 2026
