Copyright newsweek
The recent Los Angeles Lakers clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves provided plenty of drama and a thrilling finish. Another impressive performance from Austin Reaves, including the eventual game-winner in the lane, helped the Lakers grab a necessary win with LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and other key players out. Another individual who stepped up mightily and caught the attention of Timberwolves fans is Jake LaRavia. While LaRavia started the season as a reserve who’d step in when necessary, he’s appeared in the team’s starting lineup for multiple games due to the Lakers’ injuries. Minnesota’s arena became a stage for LaRavia to show his full abilities. While Reaves finished with 28 points, his friend and teammate was right behind him with 27 points. LaRavia also put on a shooting clinic, missing just one of his eleven field goals, which was one of the six three-pointers he took. The result was Reaves and LaRavia combining for an impressive performance in the Lakers’ win. In the process of LaRavia’s fantastic night, he also received some brutal trash talk courtesy of Anthony Edwards, after some assistance from a Timberwolves fan. Read more: Lakers’ Bronny James Gets Brutal Reality Check From Former Top Pick MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – OCTOBER 29: Jake LaRavia #12 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts to his three-point basket against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter at Target Center on October 29, 2025, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Lakers defeated the Timberwolves 116-115. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) During a quieter moment during the game’s fourth quarter, a fan blurted out, “Who is number 12?” prompting Edwards to respond from his seat on the bench. “That’s what I’m saying. I don’t know!” Ant dramatically yelled out, replying to the fan’s question while looking over towards the players on the court. LaRavia was shown on camera during the moment, and seemingly absorbed the wild roast courtesy of one of the game’s biggest and most entertaining rising stars. Ant's reaction to Jake LaRavia 🤣Wolves fan: "Who is No. 12??"Ant: "That's what I'm saying… I don't know!!" 😭 pic.twitter.com/pUKVEwOvJW— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 30, 2025 Ironically, LaRavia was the No. 19 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft for Minnesota. However, he never played for the Timberwolves because they traded his draft rights to the Memphis Grizzlies for other picks. LaRavia, a former Wake Forest player, spent three seasons with the Grizzlies before heading to the Sacramento Kings for last season. However, the Lakers’ front office and coach JJ Redick liked what they saw from LaRavia and found a way to sign him. Amid Wednesday night’s incredible performance by Reaves and the Lakers, the NBA also shared a highlight clip of LaRavia, giving casual fans a better sense of what he’s capable of. Jake LaRavia shot LIGHTS OUT in the @Lakers' win tonight 🌟27 PTS | 10-11 FGM | 5-6 3PM pic.twitter.com/2cVyuHFTIC— NBA (@NBA) October 30, 2025 While talking to reporters postgame, LaRavia credited his friend and teammate, Reaves, for finding him for open shots. Reaves finished the game with 15 assists. He also told reporters that members of the Lakers staff wanted him to “be more aggressive.” Rob Pelinka and Redick’s instincts seem to have paid off with LaRavia, who potentially showed what he can do in a game when he’s scorching hot from the field. Amid Luka and LeBron’s absences, if LaRavia can compile more big games like that, expect more fans to know exactly who he is. Read more: Mavericks’ Anthony Davis Exits Game With Concerning Injury For more about the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA, visit Newsweek Sports.
