Lakers Defeat Clippers Led by Reaves and Kessler

Austin Reaves scored 28 points and dished out nine assists, and Walker Kessler added 22 points with six blocked shots, helping the Los Angeles Lakers overcome 21 turnovers to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers 125-117 on Oct. 23, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena.

The Lakers entered Friday night expecting to nearly complete their roster as guard Collin Sexton returned from a lower leg injury to make his season debut. However, key role player Jake LaRavia was a late scratch due to a sprained right ankle, forcing head coach JJ Redick to adjust his rotation against the crosstown rivals.

Reaves and Kessler Drive Lakers Past Clippers

Despite building a 15-point lead in the second half, the Lakers committed a flurry of fourth-quarter turnovers that allowed the Clippers to slice the deficit to six points with 3 minutes and 18 seconds remaining. Reaves and Kessler delivered crucial plays down the stretch to secure the victory. Kessler blocked a late shot and sank two free throws to preserve the cushion.

Luka Doncic contributed 23 points, seven assists, and six rebounds for the Lakers, though he committed 11 turnovers. Kessler shot 10 for 14 from the field and grabbed eight rebounds, marking his second game with at least 20 points to start his first season with the franchise.

Hachimura Returns to Face Former Team

Rui Hachimura played his first game against the Lakers after spending time with the organization before signing a two-year, $28 million deal with the Clippers. The forward received a video tribute during the first timeout and finished the night with 16 points and six rebounds.

Before tipoff, Redick praised Hachimura’s aggressive preseason play in his new role. They’re running a lot of the same stuff for Rui that they ran for PG and at times Kawhi, Redick said. He’s playing free and he’s playing ultra-aggressive right now.

Sexton Returns as LaRavia Sits Out

Sexton checked into the game with 3 minutes and 52 seconds left in the first quarter, recording a steal on his very first defensive possession. He finished with five points and three steals across 16 minutes after missing the team’s opening regular-season game and five exhibition contests.

LaRavia missed his first contest after playing in all 82 games during the previous season. Redick stated that LaRavia attempted to test his ankle during morning shootaround before being ruled out. The team listed LaRavia as hopeful to return either Sunday at Utah or Tuesday at home against the Portland Trail Blazers.