As the Los Angeles Lakers faced mounting pressure after three consecutive playoff losses to the Denver Nuggets, Shooting Guard Austin Reaves emerged as a beacon of determination and emotion on the court.

Before the crucial Game 3, Reaves shared a heartfelt hug with the coach, reflecting the emotional toll of the playoffs thus far.

In a post-game interview, Reaves emphasized the need for resilience, stating, “We’ve got to man up and go win games.”

Despite the Lakers’ defeat in Game 3, Reaves delivered a standout performance, playing for 41 minutes and contributing 22 points, five rebounds, three assists, and four steals.

Austin Reaves really went through all his emotions

His impressive display underscored his importance in the Lakers’ lineup despite their struggles in the series.

With Game 4 on the horizon, Reaves aims to replicate his stellar performance, recognizing its significance in the Lakers’ quest to avoid elimination in the first round.

Throughout the series, Reaves has maintained an average of 14.7 points per game, with solid shooting percentages from the field and beyond the arc.

The Lakers’ success hinges on the support of their role players, especially as they seek to mount a historic comeback from a 3-0 series deficit.

While stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis have led the scoring, Reaves’ contributions highlight the importance of a collective effort in securing victory for the Lakers.