Rui Hachimura Discovered Austin Reaves After a Key Play
Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura was unaware of Austin Reaves until Reaves crossed up Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2023. Since joining the Lakers, Reaves has elevated his game significantly, helping the team manage without stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Austin Reaves' Rise With the Lakers
Originally undrafted, Reaves signed with the Lakers in 2021 and has developed into a high-level talent. After averaging 20 points last season, he set a career-high with 51 points, followed by another career-high of 16 assists and a game-winning shot, showcasing his growth.
Hachimura's Admission About Reaves
“I am not gonna lie, three years ago when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before,” Hachimura said. “He was injured I think that time. And I think he came back on a game against Milwaukee. I think I remember, he made a move on Giannis around the top and he made a layup. I am like, ‘Oh OK, he got it, you know?’”
Reaves' Early Role on the Team
When Reaves first played under former head coach Frank Vogel, he was a scrappy guard providing energy to a veteran roster with LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook. He focused less on scoring then, but his game developed rapidly.
Author's summary: Austin Reaves transformed from an overlooked undrafted player into a vital Lakers contributor, earning recognition from teammates like Rui Hachimura only after breakout performances against top opponents.