Lakers predicted to cut ties with Austin Reaves, pair him with 2-time NBA champion, former MVP originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Austin Reaves hit a game-winner to lead the shorthanded Los Angeles Lakers to another win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been dealing with injuries to key players to start the season. LeBron James started the year on the injured list, then Luka Doncic picked up an injury after just two games.

Not even one full week into the 2025-2026 NBA season, history was made. Players are racking up high-scoring games at a massive clip, and the Los Angeles Lakers

Smart was brought in to provide toughness, veteran leadership and high-energy play, with hopes he could help stabilize the backcourt and elevate the team’s defensive identity. Through his first three games in Los Angeles, Smart has averaged 7.7 points, 1.0 rebound, 2.0 assists and 1.0 steal per game while shooting 43.8% from the field.

The Memphis Grizzlies will host the Los Angeles Lakers in an NBA Cup matchup. Both teams hold a 3-2 record, with the Grizzlies coming off a narrow win against the Suns and the Lakers also securing a victory.

Luka Doncic dropped 44 points against Memphis, but his postgame comment about Austin Reaves stole the show in the press conference.