Some Los Angeles Lakers fans have raised concerns this summer about how good of a fit Austin Reaves will be alongside Luka Doncic in the long run. But if anything, Reaves' skillset actually makes him a near perfect complement to number 77.
The skepticism has mostly revolved around Reaves’ usage, or the idea that he needs the ball in his hands to be effective. But that narrative does not hold up when you actually watch how Reaves plays and understand what makes him valuable.
AR is not someone who needs to dominate the ball to be impactful. He is comfortable operating off the catch, he can space the floor from deep, and he's more than willing to take a backseat when necessary. That sort of flexibility is exactly what Doncic has lacked at times in the past, especially during his run with Dallas. When you put a patient, smart, and efficient scorer next to a heliocentric playmaker like Luka, good things tend to happen.
The proof is already out there. Reaves showed that he can excel next to other stars during his time with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, often filling in the gaps of the offense without disrupting the flow. He has also continued to improve year over year, and his expanded playmaking only adds to the possibilities.
Doncic and Reaves will prove to be an excellent pairing in the long run
But this isn't about Reaves becoming the big co-star for Luka, it's about him being the kind of player who makes a co-star better. Doncic will be the first to benefit from that.
There is also something to be said for toughness and competitiveness. Reaves is not flashy in the traditional sense, but his confidence on the big stage has always stood out. That is a trait that should play well next to Luka, especially in the playoffs when the game slows down and secondary creators become more valuable.
For Lakers fans who are worried about fit, this partnership does not require a major adjustment from either side. Doncic will continue to be the engine of the offense, and Reaves will simply enhance what is already there. His ability to play on or off the ball, keep the offense flowing and step into big moments makes him ideal for the job.
It is understandable for fans to feel cautious with change, but this is one pairing that deserves more optimism than doubt. Reaves fits the Luka mold better than most realize, and the results could speak for themselves before long.