When the Los Angeles Lakers signed Austin Reaves to a four-year, $54 million contract, a statement was made about the future of the franchise. It's certainly a team-friendly deal, but based on the limited sample size that he'd provided up to the point at which he signed it, it was an investment in his growth as a player.
Just two seasons in, it's already looking like one of the best bargain contracts in the NBA—while Reaves is playing like a borderline All-Star.
Reaves has taken his game to a new level in 2024-25, posting career-best averages in points, assists, rebounds, steals, and three-point field goals made per game. If the pace holds, it'll be the third consecutive season in which he improved upon his previous year's averages in those areas.
Per Dave McMenamin of ESPN, Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised Reaves for playing like an All-Star and perfectly identified the areas in which there's room for improvement.
JJ Redick says Austin Reaves has “played at an All-Star level” for stretches this season. As Reaves’ role has grown, his coach is imploring him to not “get out of character” and try to do more than what’s being asked of him, even if the game isn’t going in the Lakers’ direction pic.twitter.com/J9sNlXdsgj
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 16, 2025
Reaves has taken a massive step forward over the past month or so, and Redick's request for controlled play in the face of adversity could be the key to sustainability.
JJ Redick praises Austin Reaves for All-Star level play
Reaves' season averages are nothing short of impressive. He's appeared in 33 of the Lakers' 38 games, posting marks of 17.9 points, 6.2 assists, 4.3 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 2.6 three-point field goals made per game on .436/.363/.818 shooting.
Since returning from a five-game absence in December, Reaves has elevated his game and played at the All-Star level that Redick mentioned.
Since rejoining the Lakers' lineup on December 13, Reaves is averaging 19.6 points, 8.0 assists, 5.4 rebounds, 1.1 offensive boards, 1.1 steals, and 2.6 three-point field goals made per game. He's scored 20-plus points on six different occasions and has an identical six outings with 10-plus assists.
In addition to putting up All-Star numbers, Reaves has increased his efficiency, shooting 37.5 percent from beyond the arc and 85.7 percent at the free throw line.
From a statistical perspective, Reaves has absolutely looked the part of an All-Star point guard. He's also helped right the ship during difficult times in Los Angeles, which is a significant reason the Lakers have gone 8-6 over the past 14 games despite a recent three-game losing streak.
Reaves has certainly had his share of explosive showings, including four games with at least 25 points, but the key to his success has been patience, consistency, and accountability.
When Reaves keeps a level head and embraces a patient style of play, the Lakers follow suit. There's certainly a time and place for taking over, but for a team with Anthony Davis and LeBron James, Reaves looks the part of the perfect third star when he lets the game come to him.
If Reaves can maintain his recent quality of play and remain level-headed during challenging outings, then, "Star," will be the perfect word to describe him with.