SACRAMENTO — Austin Reaves achieved a rare feat for the second time this season during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 116-103 victory over the Kings on Wednesday. Following the team's third consecutive win, which improved their record to 7-2, Reaves playfully acknowledged his performance.
Reaves recorded 21 points, four assists, and three rebounds in the game. However, the most notable statistic was his zero turnovers, a mark he had only reached once before this season. When a reporter mentioned his turnover struggles prior to the game, Reaves responded with a lighthearted jab, saying, "You got something to say? You can take credit for it. Go ahead. Talking crazy before the game."
The exchange continued with the reporter asking again about his turnovers, to which Reaves confirmed, "Zero."
Earlier in the week, Reaves had committed five turnovers in the Lakers' win against the Heat on Monday. The only other game this season where Reaves did not record a turnover was the Oct. 27 loss to the Trail Blazers.
Ball security has been a point of concern for Reaves this season. His average of 4.1 turnovers per game is a career high and tied for the third-highest in the NBA. In the four games leading up to Wednesday's contest, he averaged six turnovers.
When asked if Wednesday marked the beginning of him addressing his ball security issues, Reaves reiterated his performance, stating, "Yeah, I had zero."
Friday's home game against the Trail Blazers will offer a clearer indication of whether Reaves can maintain this improved ball security.