The stars may have been missing, but the energy inside Crypto.com Arena was anything but dull. With both teams resting their marquee names, the preseason clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors turned into a showcase for the young guns and rising role players — and it was Austin Reaves who stole the spotlight.
The Lakers defeated the Warriors 126–116 in a high-scoring, fast-paced game that gave fans a taste of what could come once the regular season tips off. Reaves, who continues to build on his breakout performance from last year, poured in 21 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting night. Whether attacking the rim, pulling up in transition, or draining catch-and-shoot threes, Reaves looked every bit like a player ready to take the next step in his career.
But it wasn’t just Reaves carrying the load. Rui Hachimura added 16 points, knocking down three shots from beyond the arc, showing off his confidence and rhythm early in the season. Rookie guard Dalton Knecht chipped in another 16 points to go with three rebounds, impressing fans with his poise and ability to score from multiple spots on the floor. Deandre Ayton — in his new purple and gold threads — had a balanced game with 14 points, eight rebounds, and five assists on 6-of-8 shooting, giving the Lakers a much-needed inside presence. His chemistry with Reaves and Knecht already looked promising, with fluid ball movement and sharp decision-making in pick-and-roll sets.
For the Warriors, second-year guard Brandin Podziemski was the standout performer. The 21-year-old finished with 23 points, five rebounds, and eight assists, once again proving that he’s more than capable of running the offense when Stephen Curry takes a seat. Jonathan Kuminga added 13 points and six assists, though he struggled to find rhythm against the Lakers’ defense, while Draymond Green contributed modestly with two points, four assists, and a pair of steals — a reminder that even in limited minutes, his defensive instincts remain elite.
The game itself was a highlight reel of pace and precision. Both teams leaned into their offensive depth, pushing the tempo and testing new combinations on the floor. For the Lakers, this preseason win isn’t just about the scoreboard — it’s about seeing real progress from the supporting cast. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis expected to manage minutes throughout the year, the performances from Reaves, Hachimura, and Knecht are vital signs of the team’s evolving identity.
Meanwhile, the Warriors can take comfort in Podziemski’s continued development and the flashes from Kuminga, both of whom will play key roles in extending the team’s championship window.
In the end, the Lakers’ superior ball movement and shot-making sealed the deal. The final score — 126–116 — might not count toward the regular season standings, but it certainly boosted morale for L.A. fans eager to see their team blend youth and experience.
If this game was any preview of what’s to come, both the Lakers and Warriors are heading into the season with plenty to be excited about — but tonight belonged to Austin Reaves, who reminded everyone why he’s quickly becoming one of the league’s most reliable young stars.
