Austin Reaves Becomes Early Favorite for JJ Redick

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Austin Reaves Becomes Early Favorite for JJ Redick

Reaves’ Rise with the Lakers

Austin Reaves has been one of the most popular figures on the Los Angeles Lakers roster since entering the NBA as an undrafted rookie in 2021. He has quickly established himself as a key piece in the rotation and has improved his game year after year.

However, with the arrival of a new coach, all players must prove themselves once again. Each coach has their own vision of how the team should play, and it’s up to the players to demonstrate that they can fit into that vision and be impactful members of the rotation.

A Standout Performance Under JJ Redick

On Friday, during the team’s 123-116 victory over the Suns, Reaves highlighted his importance in the Lakers’ version of JJ Redick. The 26-year-old guard finished the night with 26 points, eight assists, four rebounds, and three steals, shooting an impressive 66.7% from the field and 71.4% from three-point range.

Under Redick’s direction, the Lakers have started the season with a 2-0 record. They have shown significant improvements offensively, executing well-designed plays and effective strategies on out-of-bounds plays. While the team is still defining its defensive identity, they have shown flashes of what they can become.

A Bright Future for Reaves

Reaves sometimes struggled to maintain a consistent role under Darvin Ham. With Redick at the helm, the fourth-year guard is expected to secure a spot in the starting lineup. He is thriving under his new coach and making the most of this opportunity.

Reaves, at 26 years old and nicknamed AR-15 and Hillbilly Kobe, has played over 207 games with the Lakers, averaging 12.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 28.5 minutes. He is under contract with the Lakers until 2027 as an unrestricted free agent.

The 2024-25 NBA season may be in its early stages, but if Reaves can sustain his level of production throughout the year, he could find his name in the conversation for Most Improved Player. This would be a clear indication that Redick’s player development plan is having an immediate impact.

With each game, the NBA ODDS for the Lakers will continue to evolve, and Reeves’ performance will be a key factor for betters.