Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is making waves this NBA season, poised to shatter a longstanding record for the highest scoring average by an undrafted player—a title that has been held for an impressive 71 years. Currently, Reaves ranks ninth in the league with an average of 28.1 points per game, a remarkable feat given the challenges faced by players trying to prove themselves without the advantage of being drafted.
Reaves has not only excelled in scoring, but he also ranks among the top players in other key metrics. He is sixth in the NBA with an average of 9.8 free-throw attempts per game, boasting a stellar success rate of 87.2%. This combination makes him one of the most formidable offensive players in the league during the 2025-26 season.
In terms of statistical performance, Reaves has also made his mark, ranking 19th in Box Plus-Minus (BPM), 17th in Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), 12th in Win Shares per 48 minutes (WS/48), and ninth in offensive Win Shares. His performance has drawn comparisons to past legends, as he currently sits second on the all-time scoring average list for undrafted players, just behind Hall of Famer Moses Malone, who averaged 31.1 points during his MVP season in 1981-82.
While Malone’s classification as an undrafted player is debated due to his ABA draft selection, other undrafted legends like Connie Hawkins and Neil Johnston help paint a broader picture of the history surrounding undrafted players. Hawkins, who faced unique circumstances that affected his draft status, averaged 24.6 points in the 1969-70 season. Johnston, on the other hand, appeared on this list by averaging 24.4 points during the 1953-54 season without any such complications.
As Reaves continues this historic journey, his integration with great players like LeBron James, who is expected to return soon, may further enhance his scoring opportunities. With a blend of skill, tenacity, and circumstances, Reaves is well on his way to not only breaking records but also solidifying his legacy in the NBA.
The season is still unfolding, but at this point, Austin Reaves is truly on a historic path, bringing excitement to Lakers fans and NBA enthusiasts alike. His success story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes who look to overcome the odds.