Austin Reaves is one of the NBA’s biggest success stories. He’s improved every year since signing the dotted line in the summer of 2021, but many pundits were skeptical about his ceiling as an undrafted player.
From the very beginning, Reaves showed signs of offensive potential in the second unit, but growing close to LeBron James would be the catalyst for something far greater.
Linking With Luka
With LeBron on the verge of retirement and Luka Dončić entering his prime, the Arkansas native has officially solidified himself as a rising star at 27 years old. He’s averaging career-highs in every category with 28.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.6 assists. It’s clear this is his new standard, and his playstyle has paired well with Luka’s.
Before James returned to the lineup, the star duo led the Lakers to a 10-4 record. While both guards share a reputation as poor defenders, their offensive firepower offsets their defensive weaknesses.
As of Nov. 30, the Lakers had the sixth-best offensive rating in the league, a mark that should only increase as James re-acclimates to game speed. His absence was mandatory for Reaves to prove himself as a true No. 2 option alongside a five-time All-Star, and Austin Reaves did just that.
Comparing Reaves To The Competition
It’s clear that Reaves has risen to a new level, but he’s competing in an era filled with superstar shooting guards. Future Hall of Famers Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker, and James Harden all headline rosters in the Western Conference.
All three guards have experience leading a franchise and multiple All-Star selections. However, even with each of their popularity, Reaves’ emergence has been undeniable. Only Edwards averages more points with 28.7 points per game, but Reaves has the edge in efficiency, shooting 51.9% while Anthony shoots 49.1%.
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Edwards is the better defender, while Reaves is the better playmaker. The biggest difference is that Anthony is the No. 1 option, and Austin is second behind Dončić, who leads the league in scoring with 35.3 points per game.
Will Reaves Become An All-Star This Year?
As it stands, Reaves will likely make his All-Star Game debut this season. The Lakers are thriving as the No. 2 seed (15-5) in the Western Conference, and the festivities will take place in Los Angeles at the luxurious Intuit Dome. Most of the fans attending the game will be from L.A., and Reaves is one of the city’s most popular athletes.
His popularity and team success will give him a massive advantage, especially with the new All-Star format this year. Adam Silver is introducing a new tournament-based system featuring three teams. Two rosters will feature American players, while the other features international stars.
The teams will be position-less, opening the door to some very interesting lineups. Each roster will have eight players, with the starters being the top five fan vote recipients. The reserves will be the top seven vote recipients, giving Reaves ample opportunity to earn his first selection.
It’s an achievement that will solidify him as a Star to the fans, front office, and, more importantly, himself. He will be Luka’s second teammate to join him in the All-Star game, behind legendary point guard Kyrie Irving.
The two of them have the chance to do something special in Los Angeles, and once Reaves signs his inevitable contract extension, the Lakers will secure one of the best dynamic duos in franchise history for the remainder of the decade.
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