Austin Reaves Eclipses Expectations with Remarkable Growth and Lucrative Future
The Los Angeles Lakers struck gold when they signed Austin Reaves as an undrafted free agent in 2021. Initially starting as a two-way player, Reaves has swiftly transitioned into one of the league’s most prolific scorers this season. Standing at 6-foot-5, the guard is on the verge of securing his first All-Star selection in what promises to be a transformative five-year career.
A Breakout Season
As of Tuesday, Reaves is averaging an impressive 28.4 points per game, a significant leap of over eight points from his previous career-high of 19.9, established during the 2024-25 season. His meteoric rise has not gone unnoticed, especially as the Lakers seek to reinforce their championship aspirations this season.
The narrative took an intriguing turn when Reaves declined the Lakers’ maximum contract extension offer over the summer—a move that general manager Rob Pelinka anticipated. Instead, he appears set to sign a staggering $241 million deal for five years with the team this coming summer, a testament to his burgeoning value in the league.
Endorsements from Legends
Those close to Reaves, including Lakers icon LeBron James, have long believed in his potential. “He’s a great dude and I’m so happy for all the success so far in his career,” James shared during an engaging discussion on his podcast, *Mind the Game*. This affirmation from a superstar like James underscores the respect Reaves has garnered in the league.
Consistency Amid Changes
Reaves’ ascent began to gain traction during the latter half of last season. After averaging 16.7 points in the first month of the 2024-25 season, he elevated his game to over 23 points per game in the final stretch. As the Lakers position themselves as serious contenders for the NBA title, James is optimistic about Reaves’ continued development.
“I just think AR has picked up exactly where he left off,” James remarked. “Confidence is key; he’s also healthier than he was last year. His understanding that his role will continue to evolve, with more usage and responsibility, is vital. He’s not just one of the guys; he’s one of ‘The Guys’ on our team.”
Navigating Team Dynamics
Concerns arose when James returned to the lineup in November after missing the first 14 games of the season. However, since that return on November 18, Reaves has maintained an impressive average of 26.8 points per game when sharing the court with James. This dynamic trio, including Luka Doncic, is quickly establishing itself as one of the league’s most formidable offensive units.
As questions loom over James’ future, the Lakers appear to be in a promising position. Securing Reaves and potentially pairing him with Doncic for the 2026-27 season could solidify the franchise’s competitive edge for years to come.
Looking Ahead
Reaves’ journey from an undrafted free agent to a potential franchise cornerstone is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he continues to thrive in his role, both Lakers fans and the wider NBA community will be watching closely to see how his story unfolds. With the prospect of a lucrative contract on the horizon and a growing reputation, the future looks bright for Austin Reaves in Los Angeles.
