There is a quiet and understated yet buoyant feel of optimism and excitement surrounding the Los Angeles Lakers as they prepare for the official start of training camp early next week. Everyone on their roster is reportedly in good health, and that includes LeBron James and Anthony Davis, both of whom have been working hard to get ready for the new season.
Another reason there is optimism surrounding the team is Austin Reaves, who is coming off a revelatory 2022-23 campaign and could be poised to improve even more this season.
General manager Rob Pelinka praised Reaves’ mentality and even said it is reminiscent of the mentality of late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant.
Rob Pelinka on Austin Reaves: "Austin's growth isn't a surprise to any of us… He uniquely has that sort of Mamba gene, where it's all about the work." pic.twitter.com/7pWBh4MxOG
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) September 28, 2023
Reaves averaged a solid 13.0 points a game while shooting 52.9 percent from the field, 39.8 percent from 3-point range and 86.4 percent from the free throw line during the regular season. He seemed to gradually progress over time and display a well-rounded skill set that included the ability to be a secondary facilitator and draw fouls at a high rate.
The undrafted guard upped his production during L.A.’s run to the Western Conference Finals, and if he continues on that upward trajectory, there’s no telling how high his peak will end up being.