Lakers' Austin Reaves Delivers Game-Winning Shot Against Timberwolves

Reaves' clutch performance keeps Lakers competitive despite key player absences

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Lakers guard Austin Reaves hit a game-winning floater with 6.6 seconds remaining to secure a 116-115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Reaves finished the game with 28 points and a career-high-tying 16 assists, continuing his recent run of exceptional scoring performances that have included a 51-point game and a 41-point game.

Why it matters

Reaves' heroics come at a crucial time for the Lakers, who have been navigating a challenging stretch with key players like Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Marcus Smart, and Gabe Vincent sidelined due to injuries. Reaves' ability to step up and orchestrate the offense has kept the Lakers competitive and maintained their championship aspirations.

The details

Reaves' game-winning shot came as he navigated a double-team from Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert, avoiding a potential charge from Donte DiVincenzo. According to reports, Reaves 'blacked out' after the shot fell, sprinting towards his teammates who mobbed him in celebration. Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Reaves' ability to deliver in crucial moments, stating 'That guy is going to show up in the big moments. I'm not surprised. He's done that many times in his career.'

  • On Wednesday night, Reaves hit the game-winning shot with 6.6 seconds remaining.
  • On Sunday, Reaves scored a career-high 51 points with 11 rebounds and 9 assists in a win over the Sacramento Kings.
  • On Monday, Reaves followed up his 51-point performance with 41 points against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The players

Austin Reaves

A guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who has been enjoying a remarkable stretch of games, including a game-winning shot against the Minnesota Timberwolves and recent 51-point and 41-point performances.

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers who praised Reaves' ability to deliver in crucial moments.

Luka Doncic

A Lakers player who is currently dealing with a left lower leg contusion and a left finger sprain.

LeBron James

A Lakers player who is currently out due to sciatica.

Marcus Smart

A Lakers player who is currently nursing an injury.

Gabe Vincent

A Lakers player who is currently nursing an injury.

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What they’re saying

“That guy is going to show up in the big moments. I'm not surprised. He's done that many times in his career.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Head Coach (newsdirectory3.com)

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong play and maintain their championship aspirations as they navigate the challenging stretch with key players sidelined.

The takeaway

Austin Reaves' clutch performance and ability to step up in the absence of Lakers stars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James has kept the team competitive and demonstrated his potential to be a key player for the franchise going forward.