The Lakers' recent surge to third place in the West has been headlined by Luka Doncic's MVP-caliber performances and an improved team defense. But let's not overlook the pivotal roles played by Austin Reaves and LeBron James in this nine-game winning streak.
Austin Reaves has emerged as one of the most efficient second scoring options in the league, while LeBron has seamlessly adapted to a more complementary role, diving for loose balls and doing whatever it takes for the team to succeed.
Reaves recently appeared on LeBron's "Mind the Game" podcast, where co-host Steve Nash asked LeBron about his first impressions of Reaves. LeBron shared a humorous anecdote, admitting he hadn’t seen Reaves play until the Lakers signed him. After watching Reaves' college highlights, LeBron noticed something unique in his style of play.
LeBron described Reaves as having a distinctive "wiggle" in his game, a quality that stood out to him. He elaborated that Reaves didn’t fit the traditional mold often associated with white players, bringing a dynamic and unpredictable element that the Lakers needed. This ability to penetrate defenses and create opportunities has been a game-changer for the team.
While LeBron's knack for bold predictions is well-known, his endorsement of Reaves has proven spot-on. Signed as an undrafted free agent, Reaves has consistently improved his scoring since his college days. His rookie season average of 7.3 points per game has only climbed, making him a vital asset to the Lakers' success.
Reaves is now on the brink of potentially securing a max contract, a testament to his hard work and impact on the court. If he achieves this, he would join Fred VanVleet as one of the few undrafted players to reach such a milestone. Even with Luka's brilliance, the Lakers' impressive 46-26 record owes much to Reaves' contributions.
LeBron's assessment of Reaves' game challenges stereotypes, highlighting his athleticism and versatility. Unlike the typical image of a spot-up shooter or a shot-blocking center, Reaves brings a dynamic offensive skill set that has expanded each season.
The Lakers have often faced skepticism about their contender status, but this winning streak has shifted perceptions. While challenging the Thunder or Spurs for the Western Conference title will be tough, the combination of Reaves' flair and LeBron's renewed vigor sets the stage for a promising postseason. Getting past the first round for the first time in three years is now not just a hope, but an expectation.