Austin Reaves Expresses Frustration as Lakers’ Struggles Continue After Loss to Heat

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves candidly shared insights into the team’s somber atmosphere following a disappointing 110-96 loss to the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, despite playing at home. The Lakers, currently the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference with a 17-18 record, faced further setbacks with a three-game losing streak and a 2-8 record in their last 10 matchups.

Reaves, who played well with 24 points, five rebounds, and eight assists against Miami, didn’t mince words about the team’s mood. “Reaves said the team’s mood was ‘s—–,’” reported ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

Acknowledging the frustrations stemming from the recent rough stretch, Reaves clarified that the off vibe wasn’t indicative of internal conflicts among players. “When I say the vibe is off, it’s not like we don’t like each other. It’s we’re losing. … But I don’t want to get that twisted on us not liking each other. Everybody in the locker room gets along,” he emphasized.

The Lakers, missing D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura, struggled to find offensive firepower beyond Anthony Davis, who contributed 29 points, 17 rebounds, and six assists. LeBron James’ limited scoring output (12 points on 6-of-18 shooting) and the lack of contributions from Taurean Prince and Cam Reddish added to the team’s challenges.

Reaves underscored the urgency to reverse the team’s fortunes, stating, “We got to win games.” With a matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, the Lakers face a critical juncture in their quest to regain momentum and secure a spot in the Western Conference Finals.