Full Breakdown
Austin Reaves' Heroic Play Leads Lakers to Overtime Victory Over Nuggets
3/16/2026, 12:24:35 AM
Key Moment in the Game
On March 14, 2026, the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Denver Nuggets in a critical matchup that showcased the skills of Austin Reaves. With just 5.2 seconds remaining in regulation and the Lakers trailing 118-116, Reaves was instructed by head coach JJ Redick to intentionally miss a free throw to create an opportunity for a rebound. Reaves executed the plan by bouncing the ball off the left side of the rim, chasing down the rebound, and scoring a floater to tie the game at 118-118, forcing overtime. The Lakers ultimately won the game 127-125.
Background and Context
The Lakers entered the game on a hot streak, having won four consecutive games and seven of their last eight, while the Nuggets had eliminated them in the playoffs in the previous two seasons. The stakes were high, as both teams were vying for playoff positioning in a tightly contested Western Conference.
Austin Reaves: The Unassuming Star
Austin Reaves, a 27-year-old guard from Newark, Arkansas, has emerged as a key player for the Lakers. Known for his self-deprecating humor and "delusional confidence," Reaves led the team with 32 points in the game against the Nuggets. Despite his impressive performance, he expressed uncertainty about executing the intentional miss, stating, “Not very,” when asked about his confidence in the play.
The Execution of the Play
The play unfolded as follows: after making the first free throw, Reaves intentionally missed the second. The ball ricocheted to the left, where Deandre Ayton effectively boxed out Nikola Jokic, allowing Reaves to secure the rebound. He then made a nine-foot floater, tying the game. LeBron James praised the execution, noting the difficulty of such a play, as it is not something players typically practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “AR made the right play, he missed it to the single side.” Nuggets coach David Adelman remarked on the rarity of such a successful play, calling it “one in 100 in the NBA.” Reaves himself reflected on the moment, humorously lamenting the impact on his free-throw percentage.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Lakers' victory, the Nuggets faced criticism for their defensive lapses. Players and coaches pointed out that failing to box out Reaves allowed him to capitalize on the missed free throw. Aaron Gordon, a Nuggets forward, acknowledged Reaves' skill but emphasized the need for better execution in clutch situations.
What's Next
The Lakers' victory propelled them to third place in the Western Conference standings, while the Nuggets fell to sixth. As the playoffs approach, both teams will need to refine their strategies and execution to secure favorable positions. The Lakers will face the Houston Rockets in their next two games, while the Nuggets will look to rebound against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s a hell of a basketball play,” — JJ Redick, Lakers Coach
- “That execution was perfection.” — Luka Doncic, Lakers Guard
- “You give them credit.” — David Adelman, Nuggets Coach
- “I’m just mad it’ll mess up my free-throw percentage,” — Austin Reaves, Lakers Guard
This thrilling game not only highlighted Austin Reaves' emerging stardom but also underscored the competitive nature of the Western Conference as teams vie for playoff positioning.