The Los Angeles Lakers have encountered a tough start to their season, currently holding a record of three wins and two losses, particularly challenging as they navigate LeBron James’ absence due to sciatica. During this period, Austin Reaves has emerged as an impressive asset, earning admiration from fans and analysts alike.
Rui Hachimura, now in his third season with the Lakers, reminisced about his first impression of Reaves after joining the team from the Washington Wizards in January 2023. Despite being unaware of Reaves’ talents prior to his arrival, Hachimura recalled a memorable moment during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where Reaves, despite being injured at the time, made a notable move against Giannis Antetokounmpo, scoring a layup. “I honestly didn’t know about him before. Then he made that move, and I thought, ‘okay, he got it,’” Hachimura reflected.
Since that pivotal game, Austin Reaves has continued to rise in stature, recording the best start of his NBA career. He is currently averaging an impressive 34.2 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game, with a remarkable shooting efficiency of 60%. This season, he has notably increased his shooting attempts from both three-point and inside the arc, showcasing his versatility and skill set.
Reaves has also delivered standout performances this season, including a remarkable 51-point game against the Sacramento Kings and a 41-point outing against the Portland Trail Blazers. If he continues to play at this high level, Reaves is likely to earn his first All-Star selection, especially given his key contributions during James’ absence, as well as recently that of Luka Doncic.
Looking ahead, both Hachimura and Reaves are eager to solidify their roles and make a lasting impact in the NBA, signaling a promising future for the Lakers despite the current challenges they face. As the season unfolds, there is hope that the team will harness this potential and improve their standings.