With the kind of big names the LA Lakers had, what happened to them in the last season was utter humiliation. The team and its fans hoped for a strong turnaround heading into the 2022-2023 season. But unfortunately, the Lakers had a painfully slow start to the season, losing ten out of their first thirteen games. However, the team has had a change of fate. They have won all of their last three games. Even though Anthony Davis has been phenomenal in these games, the contribution of Austin Reeves should not be overlooked.
Austin Reaves Has Been A Blessing For The Lakers This Season!
The Lakers\’ current run features some promising moments with Anthony Davis at the forefront. With his recent performance, Davis has reminded every NBA fan that, when healthy, he is a top-10 player. Davis has been an absolute monster over the past week or two.
However, the Lakers\’ success is not only due to AD. Austin Reaves, an undrafted guard in his second season, has been playing outstanding basketball recently and is beginning to come into his own this season. Reaves has been a tremendous asset off the bench. And with his solid performance, he has elevated his standing among some of the best players in the league.
This season, the Lakers have greatly benefited from Austin Reaves\’ rise as a player in the rotation. Particularly because Kendrick Nunn and Patrick Beverley, two seasoned guards, are not living up to their reputations. Nunn has most likely been the poorest player in the league this year. Furthermore, Beverley\’s offensive performance has been terrible, and his defense hasn\’t made up for it.
In his previous six outings, Reaves has played an outstanding average of 32.4 minutes each game. He plays solid defense, shoots a solid 52.7% from the field and 40.9% from three, and averages 15 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists.
Reaves\’ introduction to the starting lineup has been quite successful, with the Lakers winning all three of their most recent games. Since LeBron James will likely return from injury, many are now unsure if Reaves will continue to serve. Darvin Ham, head coach of the Lakers, did not provide much information about whether or not that will be the case. Ham said that it is still not decided what is to be done about Reeves\’ place in the starting lineup.
According to Darvin Ham, LeBron\’s return will undoubtedly force someone into a supporting position. The Lakers\’ coach, though, finds it challenging to remove Reaves from the game. In addition to becoming a much better playmaker this season compared to last, Reaves\’ increased aggression is also helping with his shooting.
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