2024 NBA All-Star

Basketball

When the Los Angeles Lakers traded D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets, it was clear Austin Reaves would step up in a bigger role. In their first game post-trade against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Reaves shined, delivering a game-high 35 points, nine rebounds, and ten assists. When asked about Reaves’ breakout performance, Anthony Davis kept it simple: “What’d he have, 36 tonight? 35? I mean, s—, he looked good to me. He’s a hooper,” Davis said via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. Reaves has been on a hot streak recently, which likely influenced the Lakers’ decision to trade Russell. While the team now needs a backup point guard, they appear confident in Reaves as a versatile starter who can run the offense. Transitioning into the full-time point guard role after Russell’s move to the bench, Reaves has been exceptional, including a career-high 16-assist game. Reflecting on his playmaking ability, Reaves shared: “Basically my whole life before I went to college, I really enjoyed passing the ball. My freshman and sophomore years in high school, my brother was our best player, and my job was to get him the ball. I’ve always loved creating for others, getting everyone involved, and helping the team succeed. For me, it’s always been about making the right play.” Head coach JJ Redick also praised Reaves’ recent impact: “The wiggle, the ability to touch the paint in the halfcourt, and the ability to get two on the ball—that’s huge for us. When we’re stagnant and slow, it’s hard to generate good looks. Austin’s ability to break down defenses and keep the offense flowing is vital.” If Reaves can maintain this level of play, the Lakers appear to have their point guard of the future locked in.

When the Los Angeles Lakers traded D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets, it was clear Austin Reaves would step up in a bigger role. In their first game post-trade against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Reaves shined, delivering a game-high 35 points, nine rebounds, and ten assists.