Perkins says defense decides Lakers season

Reaves scored 28 in 101-89 loss to Warriors

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

"People can't just start licking their fingers and thinking that it's going to be sweet every time they see Luka [Doncic Via @ESPNNBA on X

What happened: Kendrick Perkins said Los Angeles cannot count on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to outscore opponents every night. Reaves finished with 28 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists as Los Angeles fell 101-89 to Golden State in a final.

Why it matters: Half-court stops decide close games when perimeter shots miss. A team built around two creators needs consistent backside rotations to contend.

By the numbers: Final: Golden State Warriors 101, Los Angeles Lakers 89. Austin Reaves: 28 PTS, 4 REB, 7 AST, game-high 28 points.

What to watch: Los Angeles continues preseason work with defensive coverages to track.

Sources

@ESPNNBA 2026-10-14T19:43:26.449707+00:00

Box score

CONVERSATION

Loading comments…

NBAAnalysisLos Angeles LakersAustin Reaves

Follow NBA Intelligence

Real-time signals and analysis

@WireReportNBA

WR Pro

The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.

$9/month Free weekly newsletter →