The Los Angeles Lakers have found a rising star in Austin Reaves. In his second year with the team, Reaves has made a significant impact, helping unlock LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the court (ESPN). It’s no wonder that Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka wanted to free up more touches and minutes for Reaves, a factor in the team’s trade deadline moves (Lakers Nation).
Reaves has also caught the attention of other teams, as he is set to become a restricted free agent after this season. An NBA executive remarked that Reaves appeals to “literally every team” (Bleacher Report).
One of Reaves’ most significant strengths is his basketball IQ, which even LeBron James recognized. According to James, he has always liked players who “just know how to play the f—–g game” (Lakers Daily). Chris Mannix of HoopsHype also praised Reaves’ youthfulness and the way he carries himself like an 18-year-old, though in a great way.
Reaves’ hard work and gameplay are paying off, as he has become one of coach Darvin Ham’s most trusted players in the Lakers rotation (Sportskeeda). The 24-year-old shooting guard has also taken inspiration from Kobe Bryant, channeling his inner Bryant in a “subtle warning to the league” after the Lakers’ victory over Ja Morant’s Grizzlies (Essentially Sports).
Even with all the love Reaves is getting, he remains grounded and focused on helping the Lakers win. Recently, he revealed a moment in Game 6 of the Lakers vs. Grizzlies, where LeBron James showed he was “locked in” from the start, proving the team’s determination to succeed (ClutchPoints).
Overall, Austin Reaves is making a name for himself on one of the league’s most prominent teams. How his career will continue to develop remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: the Lakers have struck gold with this rising star (Arkansas Times).
