The Los Angeles Lakers faced a heartbreaking 113-110 loss against the Phoenix Suns on February 26, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The Suns made a decisive three-pointer with just 1.7 seconds remaining, turning the game around and handing the Lakers their third consecutive defeat and fifth loss in their last seven contests. This series of setbacks has significantly contributed to the growing frustration expressed by players like Austin Reaves within the organization.
Following the game, when asked about the team’s mood and level of frustration, Austin Reaves summed up the feeling succinctly: “Very high.” — Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers guard
How Turnovers and Defensive Mistakes Undermined Lakers’ Lead
The Lakers had controlled much of the contest until the closing moments, but the Suns capitalized on 22 successful three-point shots, exploiting defensive lapses that became increasingly costly. Key moments included turnovers on inbound passes that directly resulted in Suns’ three-pointers, contributing to critical momentum shifts such as a 6-0 run in Phoenix’s favor. These errors undermined the Lakers’ attempts to close out the game despite having a chance to secure a victory until the very end.
Maintaining Focus Amid Adversity: Reaves on Mentality
When questioned about how the team approaches difficult moments, Reaves emphasized maintaining a forward-looking mentality. He noted that dwelling on past mistakes is not productive, and instead, the team must concentrate on competing at a high level moving forward. This mindset, however, has proven challenging to implement consistently during tight games, as felt acutely in the recent losses.
In the last play, the Lakers ran a well-designed double screen action intended to free Reaves for a clean shot on the weak side. Although Reaves received a good look at the basket, the shot missed.
“I got a good look, missed it. But yeah, it’s what the play was designed to do. So yeah, it’s just a like I said, a good designed play.”
— Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers guard
Searching for Solutions as Playoff Pressure Mounts
The uncertainty surrounding the Lakers extends beyond isolated errors or missed opportunities and taps into a broader issue of consistency. Despite the team’s efforts to embrace a “next play” mentality, it remains unclear if this approach is fully reflected in their performances. Reaves himself expressed some bemusement when asked if this lack of consistency might be related to their mental approach:
“You’re making my brain work too hard now. And it’s… I don’t know.”
— Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers guard
Even on an offensively strong night where Luka Doncic posted 41 points with solid rebounds and assists, and LeBron James contributed both scoring and leadership, the Lakers could not secure a win. These flashes of talent underscore the team’s potential but also highlight the fine margins in the highly competitive Western Conference.
Western Conference Competition Intensifies the Stakes
The race for playoff positioning in the Western Conference grows tighter, with the Suns sitting just one game behind the Lakers for the sixth seed. Every game now carries immense significance, meaning defensive lapses, turnovers, and missed shots have amplified consequences. For the Lakers, the recent stretch of losses not only impacts their standings but also tests the resilience and cohesion of the roster.
As the Lakers move forward from this difficult stretch, maintaining composure and executing consistently under pressure will be critical. Austin Reaves, LeBron James, and the rest of the team face the challenge of translating their undeniable talent and flashes of excellence into sustained success to remain playoff contenders in such a competitive environment.
Q: What’s the frustration level?
Austin Reaves: “Very high.” pic.twitter.com/MG3LzyiCHX— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 27, 2026
