The Los Angeles Lakers have had a roller-coaster season so far, with injuries and COVID-19 protocols affecting their performance. However, on Sunday night, they got back on track with a 121-110 win over the Chicago Bulls, thanks to the exceptional performances from their new backcourt duo, D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves.
Russell and Reaves lead the way
Anthony Davis was undoubtedly the star of the show in his hometown of Chicago, scoring 37 points and putting in a dominant performance. However, it was the starting backcourt of Russell and Reaves that really stole the show. Russell scored 19 points while dishing out seven assists and grabbing six rebounds. He was also instrumental in setting up his teammate, Reaves, who had a career-high 17 points on an efficient seven-of-nine shooting.
Perfect pairing
Reaves has fit in seamlessly as a starter alongside Russell. Their fit next to each other on the court looks like a perfect pairing. They compliment each other offensively, with Reaves’ shooting ability opening up space for Russell’s playmaking prowess.
Speaking after the game, Reaves praised Russell for his unselfishness and chemistry-building. He said that since joining the Lakers, he has been impressed by how quickly everyone has clicked together. The new backcourt duo has blown past any expectations set for them.
A proven winner
Russell has had a significant impact on the Lakers since being traded from Minnesota Timberwolves last year. Playing alongside superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis is not an easy task, but Russell has taken on a new mindset to fit in with them. He is comfortable in his role and doesn’t mind being the third or fourth option on the team. Russell believes that there are multiple players on the team who can control and dominate the game.
The Lakers need to make sure that everyone fits in and works together to achieve their goals. Speaking to the media, Russell said that he is focused on winning and is willing to do what it takes to help the team succeed.
A journeyman’s tale
Russell’s journey in the NBA has been a mixed one. He has been traded four times in his eight-season career, and he is back with the Los Angeles Lakers, the team that originally drafted him in 2015. Russell spent the most time with Minnesota Timberwolves over parts of four seasons. Despite all of this, he has developed a thick skin regarding the business of the NBA and has no hard feelings toward the teams that traded him.
In fact, Russell appreciates his time in Minnesota and says it allowed him to become more “family-oriented.” He is glad to play against his former teammate and friend Karl-Anthony Towns now that he is back with Lakers. Currently, Russell’s current team and former team are competing for playoff positioning.
Criticisms aside
In other NBA news, player Rudy Gobert and coach Chris Finch were fined for criticizing officiating after a Timberwolves game. It seems that NBA officials are taking criticisms very seriously this year.
However, it did not deter Los Angeles Lakers’ new backcourt duo D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves from shining bright against Chicago Bulls. They showed great chemistry on both ends of the court with an outstanding performance.
Like Reaves said after the game, it was just another night where they were trying to win a game, take it one game at a time. Maybe with Russell’s proven winner mentality and Reaves’ exceptional shooting ability, Lakers can climb up higher in the standings as well as achieve their ultimate goal of winning another NBA championship.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
