The Los Angeles Lakers recently celebrated the return of Austin Reaves after he spent over a month sidelined due to a calf injury. Initially concerning, Reaves’ second calf injury did not lead to any setbacks during his rehabilitation, and he appeared fully recovered when he rejoined the team earlier this week in a game against the Brooklyn Nets.
Reaves entered the game with limited minutes and wasted no time in making an impact. He quickly assumed a larger role in the following game against the Philadelphia 76ers, especially after Luka Doncic was ruled out due to lower leg soreness. Reaves embraced the extra offensive responsibility and played a key role in leading the Lakers to a thrilling comeback victory over the 76ers.
Demonstrating exceptional skill and confidence, Reaves scored effortlessly against Philadelphia’s defense, but he truly shone in the fourth quarter. He delivered a series of tough shots that shifted momentum in favor of the Lakers, finishing the match with a team-high 35 points, shooting 12-of-17 from the field and 5-of-8 from the three-point line.
Following the game, Marcus Smart remarked that Reaves’ performance should no longer be surprising, highlighting the young player’s established reputation and importance to the team. “AR has made a name for himself and he is a big part of his team and we missed him, and I think it shows,” Smart stated. His comments reflect the high regard in which Reaves is held by his peers, underscoring his hard work off the court.
Reaves has developed into a reliable offensive option, even alongside superstar LeBron James. He has demonstrated the versatility to drive to the basket for layups or draw fouls, as well as the ability to sink crucial jumpshots, making him a valuable asset to the Lakers’ roster.
Looking ahead, it’s anticipated that Reaves may decline his player option for the 2026-27 season, as his recent performances indicate he deserves a substantial pay raise. With the potential for a competitive market during the upcoming summer, the Lakers will need to be proactive in securing Reaves with a lucrative contract that reflects his significant contributions to the team.
Reaves also addressed recent comments from Rich Paul, suggesting that the Lakers consider trading him for someone like Jaren Jackson Jr. He noted that he didn’t focus on those remarks, as his recent play has underscored his vital role within the team.
As the Lakers continue their pursuit of success this season, Reaves’ resurgence promises to be a cornerstone for their offensive strategy, making for an exciting chapter in the team’s journey.