When the Los Angeles Lakers found themselves facing a double-digit deficit midway through the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks, and without their star player LeBron James, the odds seemed insurmountable. But, in one of the most thrilling games of the season, Austin Reaves and the Lakers staged an unforgettable comeback, winning 128-124 in double overtime.
Lakers vs Milwaukee Bucks Match Information
| Date | March 26, 2024 |
| Location | Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI |
| Officials | Tony Brothers, CJ Washington, Aaron Smith |
| Attendance | 18,085 |
Lakers vs Milwaukee Bucks Match Player Stats | Box Scores
Los Angeles Lakers Match Player Stats
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | FG | 3-PT FG | FT | +/- |
| Austin Reaves | 29 | 14 | 10 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 10-20 | 4-11 | 5-6 | -2 |
| Rui Hachimura | 16 | 14 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7-14 | 0-2 | 2-2 | -6 |
| Anthony Davis | 34 | 23 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 12-31 | 3-8 | 7-7 | 2 |
| Spencer Dinwiddie | 7 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1-8 | 1-5 | 4-4 | 8 |
| D’Angelo Russell | 29 | 7 | 12 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 7-22 | 5-12 | 10-10 | 10 |
| Jaxson Hayes | 2 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 0-1 | -5 |
| Taurean Prince | 9 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3-10 | 1-5 | 2-2 | 10 |
| Cam Reddish | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 0-0 | -3 |
| Max Christie | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1-2 | 1-1 | 0-0 | 6 |
Milwaukee Bucks Match Player Stats
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | TO | FG | 3-PT FG | FT | +/- |
| Khris Middleton | 12 | 6 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4-15 | 2-7 | 2-2 | -2 |
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | 29 | 21 | 11 | 2 | 3 | 7 | 14-25 | 0-1 | 1-6 | -13 |
| Brook Lopez | 9 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4-7 | 1-4 | 0-0 | 4 |
| Malik Beasley | 21 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8-18 | 5-14 | 0-0 | 1 |
| Damian Lillard | 27 | 5 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 9-29 | 3-14 | 6-7 | -5 |
| Bobby Portis | 18 | 13 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7-15 | 2-3 | 2-2 | 5 |
| Pat Connaughton | 3 | 3 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1-4 | 1-4 | 0-0 | -6 |
| Jae Crowder | 5 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2-4 | 1-2 | 0-0 | -8 |
| AJ Green | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0-2 | 0-2 | 0-0 | 4 |
The Absence of LeBron James
LeBron James, the heart and soul of the Lakers, was sidelined due to an issue with his left ankle. His absence posed a significant challenge, as the team had already struggled without him in previous games. Yet, this scenario offered an opportunity for other players to step up and shine.
Austin Reaves Steps Up
Enter Austin Reaves. The young guard delivered an exceptional performance, notching his second career triple-double with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists. His energy and determination were evident as he hit a critical tiebreaking 3-pointer with just 38.6 seconds left in the second overtime. Reaves’ clutch performance was the cornerstone of the Lakers’ comeback.
Read More: Cleveland Cavaliers vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats
Anthony Davis’ Dominant Play
Alongside Reaves, Anthony Davis showcased why he is one of the league’s top players. Despite dealing with a knee issue, Davis played a grueling 52 minutes, contributing 34 points and 23 rebounds. His presence on both ends of the court was vital, especially his defensive efforts that helped keep the Lakers in the game.
The Game’s Turning Points
The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster. The Lakers were down by 19 points but outscored the Bucks 26-7 to force overtime. Key plays, such as Reaves’ clutch shots and Davis’ defensive stops, shifted the momentum in favor of the Lakers.
First Overtime: A Battle of Wills
In the first overtime, the game seesawed with both teams trading baskets. Milwaukee’s Damian Lillard briefly put the Bucks ahead with a corner 3-pointer, but D’Angelo Russell’s free throws tied the game again, leading to a second overtime.
Second Overtime: Sealing the Victory
The second overtime was a test of endurance and willpower. Both teams were exhausted, but Reaves’ last-minute 3-pointer and subsequent defensive plays ensured the Lakers’ victory. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s missed free throws sealed the Bucks’ fate, allowing the Lakers to pull ahead for good.
Also Read: Dallas Mavericks vs Boston Celtics Match Player Stats
The Bucks’ Performance
Giannis Antetokounmpo was a force to be reckoned with, recording 29 points, a season-high 21 rebounds, and 11 assists. Despite his efforts, the Bucks fell short. Damian Lillard also contributed 27 points but struggled with his shooting, going 9 of 29 from the field.
The Lakers’ Supporting Cast
The Lakers’ victory was a team effort. D’Angelo Russell’s 29 points, 12 assists, and seven rebounds were crucial, as was Rui Hachimura’s double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds. Their contributions provided the support needed to compensate for LeBron’s absence.
Post-Game Reflections
Reflecting on the game, players and coaches from both teams offered insights. Reaves noted the importance of competing at 110%, while Davis emphasized the volatile nature of leads in today’s high-powered NBA. Bucks’ players, including Antetokounmpo, highlighted the need to learn from the game’s mistakes.
Implications for the Lakers
This victory not only extended the Lakers’ winning streak to four games but also boosted team morale significantly. Facing another game against Memphis, the team’s confidence is at an all-time high, proving they can compete and win without their superstar.
Impact on the Bucks
For the Bucks, this game was a learning experience. Despite strong performances from their star players, they faltered in critical moments. Moving forward, they will need to address these issues to maintain their status as one of the league’s top teams.
Fan Reactions and Media Coverage
The comeback generated a buzz on social media, with fans and analysts praising the Lakers’ resilience. Media coverage highlighted the game’s dramatic nature, focusing on Reaves’ breakout performance and the team’s collective effort.
Historical Context
This game will go down in Lakers’ history as one of the most remarkable comebacks. Comparing it to past comebacks, the absence of LeBron James and the team’s ability to rally make it even more significant.
Conclusion
The Lakers’ victory over the Bucks was a testament to the team’s depth and determination. Overcoming a substantial deficit and winning without their star player showcases the Lakers’ potential to compete at the highest level. As the season progresses, this game will serve as a source of inspiration and confidence for the team.
FAQs
1. What was the final score of the game?
The final score was 128-124 in favor of the Lakers after double overtime.
2. How did the absence of LeBron James affect the Lakers?
While LeBron’s absence was a significant challenge, it allowed other players like Austin Reaves and Anthony Davis to step up and lead the team to victory.
3. Who were the standout players in the game?
Austin Reaves with his triple-double, Anthony Davis with 34 points and 23 rebounds, and Giannis Antetokounmpo with a triple-double for the Bucks were the standout players.
4. What was the turning point of the game?
The turning point was the fourth quarter comeback where the Lakers outscored the Bucks 26-7, forcing the game into overtime.
5. How does this victory impact the Lakers’ season?
This victory boosts the Lakers’ morale and confidence, proving they can win even without LeBron James. It also extends their winning streak to four games.
