Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reeves had a career year last season.
After all, Austin Reeves averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2024-25 NBA season.
Those numbers are beyond great for a third option on any NBA team in the league. Now, heading into the new season, Reeves has actually improved his game.
Reaves is at his best on the offensive side of the floor. Despite not having a muscular physique, the AR15 likes to get into the paint and score.
The Lakers star showed that in the team’s recent preseason loss to the Phoenix Suns. After the game, Reeves revealed some improvements to his game that teammate Dalton Knecht noticed.
“I think I’m faster. I’m probably a little stronger. Dalton told me that my bumps feel a little different this year, so that was nice, but I feel the same way. It doesn’t feel that different for me,” he revealed.
Considering that a player like Knecht often plays against Reaves during practice sessions, it’s natural that he would notice a change in the 27-year-old’s strength.
Either way, this is good news for the Lakers, as Reeves will have a key role until LeBron James returns from injury.
Despite being an undrafted player, Reaves showed tremendous improvement in just four years with the Lakers.
Reaves has received tremendous praise from his teammates and coaches. For example, Deandre Ayton claimed that defending Reeves was embarrassing for him.
Meanwhile, head coach JJ Redick compared Reaves to Jamal Crawford due to his ability to draw fouls at will.
All signs point to Reeves potentially having an even better year than last season considering he hasn’t been plagued by injuries.