Big-time players get big-time paydays. If JJ Redick's comments on Austin Reaves are to be believed, the Los Angeles Lakers guard will be positioning himself incredibly well to secure that bag in the summer of 2026.
The Lakers hosted a press conference for Redick and Rob Pelinka on Thursday afternoon, ahead of Lakers media day, which is set for Sep. 29. It was there that the Lakers head coach got an opportunity to rave about his talented offensive guard.
Redick said, "It's been a constant comment from our staff. He's been the best. Every day he's been in the gym, he's been the best player in the gym. ... His body is really good right now. He's really strong. His burst, his athleticism, it's evident that he spent a lot of time working on his body this summer."
It sounds like Luka Doncic was not the only player working on his physique this offseason. If Redick is correct, the best version of Reaves will be what the Lakers and their fans can look forward to once the new NBA season officially gets going.
JJ Redick’s words carry weight for Austin Reaves and the Lakers’ future
It is easy to get caught up in the part of Redick's quote that discusses Reaves being the best player in the gym. However, that is not the most interesting part of what the Lakers coach had to say. When digging a little deeper, the latter part of his comments stand out far more.
A stronger and more athletic version of Reaves offers a lot of intrigue. It can also potentially alleviate a few concerns about the Lakers heading into next season.
A lot of critics have been quick to question the fit between Doncic and Reaves in the backcourt due to the lackluster defensive perception that both players have. If both stars are in the type of form that can be expected based off the offseason developments with their bodies, the concerns about the defense quickly quiet down.
The improvements discussed by Redick can also show up in the form of the Lakers being allowed to give LeBron James a lessened burden offensively. They can effectively preserve James until the postseason, allowing Reaves to take the lead as the secondary offensive option.
The Lakers guard will still want to improve his catch-and-shoot ability to really thrive next to Doncic on that end. That should be a key focus for Reaves throughout the year.
With a big contract in sight, 2025-26 will be the most important season of the 27-year-old's career. Redick has made it clear that Reaves will be ready for it.