Get ready to witness the rise of a new NBA powerhouse, because Austin Reaves is no longer just a supporting act—he’s becoming the main event. Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick boldly predicted a breakout 2025-26 season for the rising star, and so far, the numbers don’t lie. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Reaves isn’t just meeting expectations—he’s shattering them. With career-high averages of 30.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game (as of Wednesday), the 27-year-old is proving he’s not just a role player but a cornerstone of the Lakers’ future. And this is the part most people miss: he’s doing it all while shooting 48% from the field and 32.4% from beyond the arc, despite missing a week due to a groin injury. Is this the beginning of a new era for the Lakers, or is Reaves’ success just a fleeting moment?
What makes Reaves’ story even more compelling is his ability to step up when the team needs him most. With stars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James sidelined early in the season, Reaves has seamlessly filled the void, powering the Lakers to victories and solidifying his role as the team’s third star. Redick’s strategic genius shines here—he’s crafted an offense that not only highlights Reaves’ talents but also maximizes the tandem of Reaves and Doncic, yielding results that have fans and analysts alike taking notice. But is this offensive scheme sustainable, or will defenses eventually catch on?
Reaves’ evolution isn’t just about stats; it’s about leadership. The Lakers handed him added responsibilities this season, and he’s risen to the challenge, establishing himself as a pivotal figure alongside James and Doncic. Redick told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, ‘The biggest thing was him taking a step forward as a leader and recognizing that it’s as much his team as it is LeBron’s or Luka’s.’ This shift in mindset is crucial, as Reaves moves from being the undrafted underdog to one of the team’s main pillars. But can he truly carry the weight of leadership in a franchise as storied as the Lakers?
Controversially, some might argue that Reaves’ success is a product of circumstance—benefiting from injuries to key players or Redick’s tailored system. Yet, Reaves himself credits Redick’s belief in him, saying, ‘He basically pulled me in and was like, ‘Take control. Be a leader.’’ This intentional empowerment has transformed Reaves from a quiet contributor to a vocal leader, though he jokingly questions whether his teammates actually like him. Is this self-doubt warranted, or is it just the humility of a player still finding his voice?
If Reaves maintains this level of play, a massive payday is inevitable, and the Lakers will face intense pressure to retain their homegrown talent. But here’s the real question: Can Reaves sustain this level of performance, or is this season an anomaly? As the NBA world watches, one thing is clear—Austin Reaves is no longer just a player to watch; he’s a player to debate. What do you think? Is Reaves the real deal, or is his success too good to last? Let us know in the comments!
