Austin Reaves shines with record-breaking performance, eyes lucrative deal while pledging loyalty to Lakers
Austin Reaves is making headlines—and quite a bit of money—as the NBA season unfolds. As he gears up for free agency next season, Reaves has emerged as a formidable force for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging over 30 points per game, placing him fifth in the league in scoring. His contributions extend beyond just scoring; he’s also pulling down more than five rebounds and dishing out nine assists per game, which ranks him equally among the top five playmakers in the NBA.
A Rising Star in the Lakers’ Offense
Reaves has firmly established that he is no longer just a complementary player. Instead, he has stepped into the spotlight as a reliable go-to option for the Lakers. This evolution was particularly evident during a stretch without key stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James, where Reaves averaged an impressive 40 points across three games. His crowning achievement in this span was a stunning 51-point explosion against the Sacramento Kings, leading the Lakers to a commendable 2-1 record in those contests.
Despite the likelihood of attracting significant offers from various teams eager to sign him, Reaves has made it clear that his heart remains in Los Angeles.
A Lucrative Future on the Horizon
The Lakers made a calculated move last offseason, extending a four-year, $89 million contract offer to Reaves—the maximum allowable under the collective bargaining agreement. It was a proposal he declined, setting the stage for an even more lucrative payday next summer. Reaves is poised to sign a five-year deal worth $241 million with the Lakers or potentially opt for a four-year contract worth $178.5 million from another franchise.
However, Reaves has conveyed that his focus isn’t solely on financial gain. “I try not to think about it. Honestly. I’ve said it a million times. I want to be in L.A. I love it,” Reaves expressed, highlighting his commitment to the Lakers. He emphasized that declining the previous extension was not an indicator of an insatiable desire for money, stating, “I want to win. I want to do everything that can help this organization be better.”
Leadership Development Through Coaching
Reaves attributes much of his recent success to a conscious effort in personal development, particularly in leadership. Following a series of motivational discussions with head coach JJ Redick, Reaves was encouraged to embrace a more assertive role within the team. “He basically pulled me in and was like, ‘Obviously this isn’t all on you, but take control. Be a leader,’” Reaves recounted. The consistent message from Redick was clear: “You kind of just hiding in the back is over. You have to take control and speak up and be a leader of this team.”
As Reaves continues to evolve both as a player and a leader, the Lakers and their fans are undoubtedly excited about what the future holds. His journey thus far is a testament to his hard work and dedication, proving he’s not just a role player but a pivotal piece in the Lakers’ quest for success.
