Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is playing less than 20 minutes a game, but the rookie is making the most of his time on the court and impressing his team along the way.
Through the first six games of the season, Reaves is averaging 6.2 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 19.7 minutes with the Lakers. He is converting on 55% of his shot attempts from the field, including 41.7% (5-of-12) from 3-point range.
Reaves often does the little things on the court and has proven to be not scared of the moment, something Anthony Davis recently noticed. The Lakers were first unsure if he would crack the rotation, but he has proven to be worthy of playing time.
Lakers head coach Frank Vogel recently commended Reaves’ effort.
He has been outstanding for us on both sides of the ball. Teams think that they can target him but he really moves his feet well, puts his body in front of the ball and plays with toughness and scraps in loose-ball situations. He just plays a scrappy brand.
I think the poise he plays with offensively is very surprising for a rookie. (He has created a) few situations for us with his drive and kick, patience in the paint, finding someone else on a box out and facilitated a few possessions where we needed a bucket.
The Lakers have dealt with several injuries to open the season, which has opened the door for Reaves and others. He looks fully capable of stepping in and producing off the bench, something the team will certainly need in spurts this season.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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