Reaves Leads Lakers to Preseason Triumph Over Warriors
Initial Exchange and Early Leads
In the opening quarter of the exhibition match at Crypto.com Arena, the Golden State Warriors established a slight advantage, concluding the period ahead 32-30. Brandin Podziemski was instrumental for the Warriors, contributing 10 points through a layup and a three-pointer, as the team accumulated 14 points within the painted area. For the Lakers, Austin Reaves began to make his mark, securing seven points, including a notable step-back three. Deandre Ayton also contributed six points and three rebounds in this initial phase.
Lakers' Dominant Second Quarter Shift
The Los Angeles Lakers seized control in the second quarter, outscoring the Warriors by a significant margin of 33-22, which propelled them to a 63-54 lead at halftime. Austin Reaves continued his impressive performance, tallying a total of 13 points by the break, including two successful three-pointers. Ayton further solidified his presence with 10 points and five rebounds, while Jonathan Kuminga managed seven points for the Warriors before halftime.
Warriors' Brief Resurgence in the Third Quarter
The momentum temporarily swung back in favor of the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter, as they secured a 39-27 run, taking a narrow 93-90 lead. Podziemski was a pivotal figure for the Warriors, adding 11 points in this quarter with a three-pointer and a layup, bringing his total to 21 points. Rui Hachimura delivered 13 points for the Lakers, though LeBron James was sidelined due to a coach's decision.
Decisive Fourth Quarter and Game Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers regained command in the final quarter, outpacing the Warriors 36-31 to ultimately secure a 126-116 victory. Dalton Knecht emerged from the bench to add a significant 16 points, including three three-pointers, contributing to the Lakers' late surge. Austin Reaves concluded the game as the Lakers' top scorer with 21 points on 7-of-10 shooting, along with three assists, all within 23 minutes of play. Hachimura finished with 16 points, including three three-pointers, and Ayton recorded 14 points and eight rebounds. For the Warriors, Podziemski led all scorers with 23 points and five rebounds, supported by Kuminga's 13 points and six assists. Stephen Curry did not participate in the game. The Lakers' strong interior play resulted in 52 paint points, while they also capitalized on 20 Warriors' turnovers, converting them into 21 points.
