Life without LeBron James has been tough for the Los Angeles Lakers. The team has been struggling to find their footing since James’ departure due to injury. But amidst this difficult time, one player has stepped up and been a shining light for the Lakers – Austin Reaves.
According to StatMamba, per Hoop Central, Reaves has been on fire, averaging an impressive 30.6 points, 9.8 assists, and 7.4 rebounds during the absence of James. These numbers are not only impressive for a rookie, but they are also comparable to some of the league’s top players.
Reaves’ performance has been a pleasant surprise for the Lakers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in August. The 23-year-old guard from Wichita State has quickly become a fan favorite with his tenacity and determination on the court.
In the absence of James, Reaves has been given more playing time and has made the most of it. He has shown great versatility, playing both as a point guard and a shooting guard, and has excelled in both roles. His ability to create plays and find open teammates has been crucial for the Lakers’ offense.
But it’s not just his passing skills that have impressed. Reaves has also been a scoring machine, averaging 30.6 points per game. He has shown a knack for getting to the rim and finishing strong, as well as a deadly three-point shot. His scoring ability has been vital for the Lakers, who have struggled to find consistent scoring options without James.
Reaves’ rebounding has also been a huge asset for the Lakers. At 6’5”, he may not have the height of a traditional power forward, but he has a nose for the ball and has been grabbing an impressive 7.4 rebounds per game. His rebounding has helped the Lakers control the boards and limit second-chance opportunities for their opponents.
But it’s not just his on-court performance that has caught the attention of fans and analysts. Reaves’ work ethic and attitude have also been praised by his teammates and coaches. He has shown a willingness to learn and improve, and his determination to make the most of his opportunity has been evident in every game.
Reaves’ success on the court has also been a testament to the Lakers’ coaching staff. Head coach Frank Vogel and his assistants have done an excellent job of developing Reaves and putting him in a position to succeed. They have shown confidence in the young guard and have given him the freedom to play his game.
As the Lakers eagerly await James’ return, Reaves has become a crucial part of their rotation. He has provided much-needed scoring and playmaking, and his energy and hustle have been contagious for the team. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, and he has quickly become a fan favorite at the Staples Center.
But as impressive as Reaves’ numbers have been, it’s important to remember that he is still a rookie. He will have his ups and downs, and there will be games where he struggles. But his performance so far has shown that he has the potential to be a valuable contributor for the Lakers, both now and in the future.
In conclusion, life without LeBron James has been tough for the Los Angeles Lakers, but Austin Reaves has been a bright spot in an otherwise difficult time. His impressive numbers and all-around game have been crucial for the team, and his work ethic and attitude have made him a fan favorite. As James nears his return, the Lakers can take comfort in knowing that they have a promising young player in Reaves who can step up when needed.
