The Los Angeles Lakers are showing signs of optimism following the impressive performances of their secondary stars, even in the absence of their main player, Luka Dončić, who is sidelined with a finger strain and a leg contusion. In a recent episode of “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor discussed the team’s outlook and highlighted standout performances, particularly from Austin Reeves. Last Sunday, Reeves shone brightly, scoring 51 points on 12 of 22 shooting, including six three-pointers and an impressive 21 of 22 from the free-throw line, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the league.
Reeves’ production underlines his efficiency in pick-and-roll situations, where he currently leads the league with an impressive 1.29 points per pick and roll, closely followed by Dončić at 1.25 points. Both players have exhibited remarkable chemistry on the court, effectively sticking to the team’s identity of leveraging the pick-and-roll strategy. O’Connor pointed out the potential for Reeves to further elevate his game within this high-volume system.
Additionally, the integration of DeAndre Ayton into the Lakers’ lineup has been a pleasant surprise. Initially met with skepticism following a lackluster opening night performance, Ayton has redeemed himself with strong showings in subsequent games. His skill set as a short roller adds a new dimension to the Lakers’ offense, allowing for seamless transitions from pick-and-roll plays to scoring opportunities. O’Connor highlighted Ayton’s ability to finish with mid-range shots and capitalize on defenders collapsing on the ball.
This dynamic is significantly different from last season, suggesting that Ayton’s presence on the roster provides the Lakers a strategic advantage — one that could enhance their overall performance this season. The 6-foot-10 center, now playing on a more reasonable contract of $6 million, is delivering impactful contributions, demonstrating that he can thrive within this fast-paced competitive environment.
The Lakers’ current trajectory, marked by the standout play of both Reeves and Ayton, provides their fans with renewed hope. As they navigate through the season, the emerging roles of these players may prove crucial in pushing the team toward success, even during challenging times such as the absence of their star player.