The Los Angeles Lakers have found a new spark in their roster, and his name is Austin Reaves. The second-year guard has been instrumental in the team’s recent success, as he has unlocked the potential of star players LeBron James and Anthony Davis (ESPN). Reaves’ ascent to becoming one of the most valuable players on the team has not gone unnoticed by other teams, as he is set to become a restricted free agent this offseason.
The Lakers’ front office, however, seems determined to keep Reaves in Los Angeles, as General Manager Rob Pelinka has emphasized the importance of giving the guard more touches and minutes on the court (Lakers Nation). This statement comes in light of the team’s recent trade deadline moves, which were partly made with the intention of freeing up space for Reaves to have a bigger role in the rotation.
While Reaves’ future with the Lakers seems promising, rumors of his possible exit still loom. However, the guard himself has hinted at wanting to stay with the team for the long haul, saying that he would “love to be here my whole career” (ClutchPoints). Other teams are taking notice of Reaves’ potential, with one NBA executive saying that the guard “appeals to literally every team” (Bleacher Report).
Reaves has also made an impression on his teammates, particularly James, who has praised the guard’s playing style while also jokingly calling him “undisciplined” in practice (Sportskeeda). Reaves, for his part, has taken a page out of the late Kobe Bryant’s book, channeling the Mamba’s killer mentality in a subtle warning to the league after the Lakers’ win over the Memphis Grizzlies (Essentially Sports).
As the Lakers push for a playoff spot this season, Reaves’ contributions on both ends of the floor will be crucial to their success. But beyond that, the guard’s potential for growth and development has many in the league keeping an eye on him. Whether or not Reaves stays with the Lakers, it is clear that he is a rising star in the NBA.
