The Los Angeles Lakers dropped Game 1 of their second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Austin Reaves’ struggles were a big reason why.
Reaves finished with just eight points in his third game back from injury.
His co-star, LeBron James, gave Reaves some slack, saying he’ll be able to bounce back as he continues to work his way back from injury.
“He was out a month. We know he’s gonna make shots and make plays,” James told reporters. “That’s tough when you’re out a month towards the end of the season. … His presence alone helps us, no matter what.”
James added that Luka Dončić’s absence has taken a big toll on the Lakers’ offense.
“The offensive issues coming from? We have a guy that averaged 37 a game,” James said. “There’s the issues right there.”
Los Angeles is going up against one of the best defensive teams in the league, and Dončić’s absence, combined with Reaves still being a bit rusty, led to a bad start to the series.
The Lakers will look to shake off the rough Game 1 and respond well on Thursday.
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