Austin Reaves Hits Buzzer-Beater, Lakers Edge Timberwolves 116-115

UPDATE: In a breathtaking finish, Austin Reaves has propelled the Los Angeles Lakers to a dramatic 116-115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves with a buzzer-beater floater. This thrilling moment unfolded on July 15, 2025, as Reaves capped off a phenomenal night with 28 points and 16 assists.

This latest triumph marks another highlight in Reaves’ remarkable week, where he scored a career-high 51 points and followed it with 41 points in consecutive games against the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers. With star players Luka Doncic and LeBron James sidelined due to injuries, Reaves has stepped up to lead L.A. back to contention.

The game-winning shot came off a crucial inbounds play with just 6.6 seconds on the clock. Reaves skillfully maneuvered past two elite defenders, Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, before sinking a challenging floater from 12 feet while avoiding contact with Donte DiVincenzo, who was attempting to draw a charge.

“I blacked out after the ball fell through the net,” Reaves said, describing the exhilarating moment. “It felt amazing to win this game.”

Reaves’ heroics not only salvaged the game after the Timberwolves staged a late comeback, erasing a 20-point second-half deficit, but also avenged last year’s playoff defeat. The Lakers were eliminated by the Timberwolves in the first round last spring, and Reaves noted that this victory held special significance for him.

“Last time we were in this building, I missed a potential game-tying shot,” Reaves said. “This win feels good for obvious reasons.”

Lakers’ head coach JJ Redick praised Reaves, stating, “That guy is going to show up in the big moments. I’m not surprised.” The team’s performance was a testament to their resilience, especially with several key players absent including Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber.

Reaves distributed his assists impressively, with four other Lakers scoring in double digits, including Jake LaRavia with 27 points on 10-for-11 shooting, and Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura, both contributing 17 points.

“We wouldn’t have been in that position to win if it wasn’t for everybody that chipped in tonight,” Reaves acknowledged. “Jake was monstrous.”

As the Lakers improve to 3-2 this season, the team is beginning to find its rhythm amid challenges. Redick expressed pride in his players, highlighting their ability to unite during tough times and deliver results.

Reaves, who entered the league undrafted in 2021, is now among the top scorers in the league, trailing only Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. His journey from an underdog to an NBA standout continues to inspire fans and teammates alike.

As the Lakers look ahead, all eyes will be on Reaves to see if he can maintain this incredible momentum and lead the team through the challenges that lie ahead.