Lakers’ Austin Reaves Thrives After Major Trade Shakeup

NEW YORK, NY – The Los Angeles Lakers celebrated a dramatic road victory after defeating a formidable opponent, the Denver Nuggets, on February 2, fueled by a combined 60 points from Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic, despite being without their star player Anthony Davis due to an abdominal strain.

Reaves, who scored 27 points, reflected on the game saying, “Me and Bron were talking in the locker room after the game… if we play like that and add AD to that, we could be dangerous.” The win was particularly significant as it came against a team riding a five-game winning streak.

Following the game, the Lakers’ bus navigated through Manhattan when Reaves encountered a shocking update on his phone. Reports surfaced from ESPN’s Shams Charania claiming that Davis had been traded to the Dallas Mavericks, with Reaves himself involved in a deal for Slovenian superstar Doncic.

Initially dismissive, Reaves recalled his disbelief, saying, “First thing, I was like, ‘Oh this is [false].’ He got hacked.” However, as messages flooded in from teammates confirming the news, it became evident that the tectonic-shifting trade was real.

The fallout of the trade has reshaped Reaves’ role on the Lakers. No longer just a supporting player, Reaves has evolved into a critical component alongside James and Doncic, and the Lakers have thrived with him as a key scorer, compiling a 26-8 record when he scores 20 or more points.

Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka addressed concerns about Reaves’ place in the lineup, stating, “One of the people I was thinking of the most in my head was just AR… I knew bringing in another primary ball handler would have implications for him.”

Despite the fear of redundancy amid added talent, the Lakers have elevated Reaves in status and practice. Currently, he is averaging a career-high 3.1 isolation plays per game this season, with even higher usage since Doncic joined the team.

In the wake of Davis’ trade, Reaves demonstrated his readiness to shoulder greater responsibilities, putting up impressive numbers in crucial games. He scored 37 points against the Nuggets, showcasing his ability to carry the team amidst star absences.

“I just want to win, and I feel like I can change the game whenever I’m on the court,” Reaves said. His work ethic and dedication have earned him respect from the coaching staff, including first-year coach JJ Redick, who has worked with Reaves on leadership and offense strategies throughout the season.

As the Lakers prepare for the playoffs, every game has become an opportunity for Reaves to solidify his status as a core player alongside LeBron James and Doncic. He has become an indispensable part of the team with championship aspirations.

Looking ahead, Reaves signed a four-year, $54 million extension, considered one of the best value contracts in basketball, and could be eligible for an even larger deal in the near future. Lakers governor Jeanie Buss echoed the sentiment of fan allegiance to Reaves, praising his style of play and his determination.

“The way he plays the game, fights for every ball… you can’t help but get drawn in and cheer for them. He just keeps proving himself,” Buss stated, highlighting the bond Reaves has forged with both teammates and fans alike.