After a significant road victory, Austin Reaves was in a celebratory mood. The Lakers, powered by Reaves and LeBron James, had just defeated the New York Knicks, even without Anthony Davis.
Reaves recounted a conversation with James after the game, where they discussed their potential if Davis were added back into their strong play. However, their optimism was quickly interrupted by rumors.
While on the team bus, Reaves saw a report that the Lakers had traded Davis and Max Christie for Luka Doncic. Initially dismissing it as false, Reaves soon realized the trade was indeed real, confirmed by his assistant coach.
This trade, sending Davis to Dallas for Doncic, was a major NBA shockwave, significantly altering the paths of Davis and Doncic and the futures of both the Lakers and Mavericks franchises.
For Reaves, the trade redefined his role. He transitioned from a supporting player to a key member of a team now featuring James and Doncic. His performance is critical; the Lakers` record is significantly better when Reaves scores over 20 points.
Despite the potential for his role to diminish with another ball-dominant star in Doncic, Reaves has been elevated within the team. He is now featured alongside James and Doncic in promotional materials and sees a high volume of touches in games.
Lakers executive Rob Pelinka acknowledged considering Reaves` role during trade discussions, understanding the impact of adding another primary ball-handler. However, the Lakers believe Reaves remains crucial to their championship aspirations.
Reaves` playoff performance is seen as an audition for his future role as Doncic`s primary partner when James retires. Pelinka emphasizes Reaves` basketball IQ and ability to complement star players.
Weeks after the trade, in a game against the Denver Nuggets, Reaves led a depleted Lakers team. His father watched from home as Reaves delivered a standout performance, outplaying Nikola Jokic with 37 points, 13 assists, and 8 rebounds.
Despite fatigue and a heavily iced wrist, Reaves showcased his ability to take over games. He expressed his belief in his ability to impact the game whenever he is on the court.
Coach JJ Redick, who had previously challenged Reaves to take more leadership, praised his response. Redick had emphasized Reaves` importance and potential after a poor shooting game, urging him to be a leader on the court.
Earlier in the season, Redick had also encouraged Reaves to take more ownership and leadership after a high-scoring game. More recently, Redick met with Reaves, Doncic, and James to encourage more aggressive and creative offensive play as a trio.
Since that meeting, the Lakers` offense has improved significantly when the three share the court. Reaves` performance continues to exceed expectations for an undrafted player, with one executive calling him the best undrafted player since Hall of Famer Ben Wallace.
Even with Doncic, Reaves maintains a high usage rate and benefits from favorable matchups as opponents focus defensively on Doncic. This has allowed Reaves to be more assertive offensively.
Reaves` current contract is considered a great value, and he is eligible for extensions that would reflect his growing importance to the Lakers.
Lakers owner Jeanie Buss praised Reaves` dedication and impact, highlighting his journey from an undrafted player to a key Laker.
Reaves acknowledges the stereotypes faced by white players in the NBA, but he continues to overcome them. Coach Redick recognizes the constant testing Reaves faces and how he consistently proves himself.
LeBron James recognized Reaves` potential early on, noting his ball-handling, creativity, competitiveness, and drive. Pelinka echoed this, recalling how James quickly agreed to sign Reaves to a standard contract after seeing his talent in training camp.
Doncic has also been impressed by Reaves, particularly after witnessing a 45-point performance. Doncic believes Reaves has the potential to be an “amazing player,” recognizing his current high level of play.
The Lakers` position in the Western Conference is precarious. After a rough patch earlier in the season, Reaves helped lift the team`s spirits with a simple gesture: wearing a headband in practice.
This lighthearted act boosted team morale during a slump. Reaves` headband became a symbol of the team`s turnaround, coinciding with a significant improvement in their record.
Coach Redick believes James and Doncic trust Reaves. Notably, James also started wearing a headband, inspired by Reaves` positive impact.
For the Lakers to succeed in the playoffs, Reaves needs to maintain his high level of play. Teammate Jarred Vanderbilt sees Reaves as stepping into a leadership role alongside James and Doncic, proving his ability to handle increasing responsibility.
