Lakers fans go berserk after Austin Reaves' 26-point, 16-assist game in LeBron James' absence - "Caruso upgrade" 

The LA Lakers were without star player LeBron James for the game against the Sacramento Kings. In his absence, Austin Reaves stepped up big-time alongside Anthony Davis with a double-double of 26 points, 16 assists (a career-high) and six rebounds.

Austin Reaves, who led the offense in LeBron James's absence, caused a frenzy on social media. A user on X (formerly known as Twitter) jokingly called him an upgrade of former player Alex Caruso.

"Caruso upgrade ahhhhh"

While the franchise's fanbase is seeing the twilight of James' illustrious career. Reaves, according to some fans on X, is the future of the franchise.

"Austin Reaves putting up superstar numbers! When he’s in this groove, the Lakers become unstoppable. Future All-Star vibes or what?," a wrote tweeted.

"the next torch carrier in lakers history," another fan wrote.

"He's turning in to a MAJOR super star,"another fan added.

Generally, fans were excited about his performance. Just like he did against the Golden State Warriors in the absence of Anthony Davis, he came up big again for the Purple and Gold.

"I’ll say it again he’s a Future hall of famer , bookmark it," another fan added.

"COLDEST WHITE BOI IN THE LEAGUE," another fan commented.

The win against the Kings was their fourth over them this season. Things were not going to get any easier for the Kings with them firing coach Mike Brown. This was former Lakers player Dough Christie's first loss as the Kings' interim.

On his return, Anthony Davis led with a game-high 36 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists. Rui Hachimura ended the game with 21 points and four rebounds.

For the Kings, De'Aaron Fox also had a double-double of 29 points, 12 assists and five rebounds. Demar DeRozan scored 25 points, six rebounds and seven assists.

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What's next for the LA Lakers in the Western Conference?

The LA Lakers are currently on a two-game winning run and have managed four wins in their last five games. Their only loss in that run was the shock 117-114 home defeat against the Detroit Pistons on Dec. 23.

LeBron James (23) moves the ball against Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (12) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Purple and Gold will end the year with a home game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Dec. 31. Tip-off is slated for 6:00 pm at the Crypto.com Arena.