Austin Reaves Emerges as Lakers’ New Star, Outshining LeBron and Doncic in Career Year
Austin Reaves is rewriting the narrative surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers this season. Head coach JJ Redick predicted a breakout year for the talented guard, and Reaves is delivering in spades. As of Wednesday’s matchup, he is boasting remarkable averages of 30.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, alongside 1.5 steals. These impressive stats come despite a week-long absence due to a groin injury, with Reaves shooting 48% from the field and 32.4% from three-point range.
Stepping Up Amid Injuries
With both Luka Doncic and LeBron James sidelined at different points early in the season, Reaves has risen to the occasion, solidifying his role as the team’s third star. His ability to lead the Lakers to victories in the absence of their superstars has not gone unnoticed. Redick has crafted an offensive scheme that revolves around Reaves, showcasing not only his individual talents but also his compatibility with Doncic—a combination that has yielded encouraging results.
Reaves has proven to be a guard with a well-rounded game. He excels at rebounding, particularly for his position, and has developed a knack for drawing contact and finishing strong at the rim. His improved ball-handling skills have allowed him to create his own shot, further enhancing his impact on the court.
A Shift in Leadership Dynamics
This season, the Lakers have entrusted Reaves with additional responsibilities, granting him a pivotal role alongside James and Doncic in team operations. Redick emphasized the importance of Reaves embracing his leadership potential. “The biggest thing was him taking a step forward as a leader and recognizing that it’s as much his team as it is LeBron’s team or Luka’s team,” Redick remarked. He encouraged Reaves to tap into his natural leadership abilities consistently.
Reaves himself acknowledged the motivational push he received from Redick. “He basically pulled me in and was like, ‘Obviously this isn’t all on you, but take control. Be a leader,’” Reaves shared. He recounted Redick’s repeated affirmations that his teammates appreciate him, urging him to step away from the shadows and take charge.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
If Reaves maintains this elevated level of performance, he is likely to position himself for a lucrative contract extension, compelling the Lakers to make competitive offers to retain their homegrown talent. The young guard’s emergence marks a significant shift in the Lakers’ dynamic and could redefine their trajectory for the remainder of the season. As the team navigates through injuries and challenges, Reaves stands ready to lead, proving that he is not just a supporting player, but a cornerstone of the franchise moving forward.
