The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Sacramento Kings 132-122 on Saturday night despite the absence of LeBron James. Anthony Davis led LA with 36 points and 15 rebounds, but Austin Reaves accomplished a feat previously accomplished only by LeBron James and Magic Johnson in Lakers history, according to StatMuse.

Reaves recorded 26 points, six rebounds and a career-high 16 assists. Reaves became just the third Lakers player in franchise history, joining LeBron and Johnson, to record these specific statistics in a game.

The Lakers are suddenly playing their best basketball of the season, having picked up wins in five of their last six games. Before the recent winning streak, there were questions about the team. However, the Lakers are beginning to silence their doubters.

LeBron has been playing well on the floor and Davis is leading the way. However, Reaves’ influence should not be overlooked. The 26-year-old is averaging 20.7 points, 7.7 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game over the Lakers’ impressive final six games.

When it comes to his scoring, Reaves is taking a step forward. Additionally, Reaves, a guard, helps out in the rebounding department. Perhaps his biggest contribution in recent games has been his ability to get his teammates involved. He recorded 10 assists in Wednesday’s win over the Warriors and as mentioned, Reaves had 16 assists on Saturday night.

Will Austin Reaves continue to play at an All-Star level for the Lakers?

Reaves is currently playing at a high level. The Lakers need him to continue producing as the season progresses. In the end, Anthony Davis and LeBron James are the best players on the team, but Reaves helps to say the least.

Of course, it goes beyond Davis, James and Reaves. LA needs a complete team effort. Rui Hachimura, Max Christie and Dalton Knecht are all capable of big games. In fact, they all played well on Saturday. D’Angelo Russell is also a good player, although he has been inconsistent at times.

The Lakers are a fascinating team. Most people in the NBA world don’t consider them legitimate championship contenders, but this Lakers team appears to be in serious postseason conversations. Of course, once the playoffs begin, anything can happen.

Los Angeles will have a few days off before playing at home against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night.