The hugely successful acquisition of Los Angeles Lakers Lukadon Sic in February 2025 reconstructed the franchise’s trajectory.
However, it sparked discussions about roster compatibility, particularly regarding Guard Austin Reeves.
Veteran forward Marcus Morris recently raised concerns about pairing. He suggests that the Reaves’ defensive limitations will make him worse alongside Luka Doncic in key playoff situations.
“I’m a huge Austin Reeves fan, but I don’t like the combination of him and Luka,” Morris said, referring to his older brother, Markiev’s Lakers Connection.
“When you’re in the playoffs, everyone is looking for a matchup. Everyone is looking for a slow-footed guy. You can’t get Luka and Austin to mow again on the court at the same time.”
“Defensively, I feel like the combination didn’t work,” Morris added. His critique focuses on exploitable matches targeted by opposing teams in playoff strength.
Morris proposed Minnesota as a suitable destination for regeneration and proposed mutual benefits. The Timberwolves’ defenses were able to hide Reeve’s weaknesses while taking advantage of his offensive versatility.
Despite the criticism, Reaves showed significant growth this season. He has established a career high of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.6 assists on average as a legal scoring threat.
His breakout moments included a 45-point explosion against Indiana and a triple double on Christmas Day. The Reaves surpassed Kobe Bryant for the second three-pointer in the Lakers’ singleseason history.
Reaves agents are actively fighting trade rumors, highlighting the value and benefits of their clients. The Lakers reportedly are reluctant to let go of Reeve unless they receive the best talent in return.
Morris raises effective defensive concerns, but Reeves’ offensive contributions and growth trajectory make him invaluable. Trade decisions need to weigh potential defensive improvements against losing his versatility.
The Lakers prefer to build around Donsic and LeBron James, so the choices they have on the roster are key in determining whether their team is likely to win a championship.