Austin Reaves has steadily carved out a name for himself in the NBA, and with each passing season, his game continues to evolve. While he may not yet be an All-Star, the possibility doesn’t seem too far-fetched. His rise has been nothing short of remarkable, and if he keeps up this trajectory, we could very well see him in an All-Star jersey someday.
For the Los Angeles Lakers, Reaves has turned into a crucial piece, forming what looks like a legitimate “Big Three” alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. While the debate continues over whether he's the league’s best third option, his numbers speak for themselves. Averaging 19.6 points and 6.0 assists per game this season, he has taken his game up a notch, especially since February, where he’s been putting up an impressive 22.5 points per contest.
A Signature Move in the Making
One of the most exciting aspects of Reaves’ game has been the refinement of his ball-handling skills. Though he may not be a traditional point guard, he’s shown significant improvement in creating plays for himself and his teammates. One move that has started to become his signature is his smooth behind-the-back dribble—a move that consistently helps him slip past defenders. This has even caught the attention of Lakers legend James Worthy, now an analyst for Spectrum SportsNet, who compared Reaves to the late Hall of Famer Pete Maravich.
Drawing Comparisons to a Legend
For those unfamiliar, Maravich was a true icon of the game. His college career was nothing short of legendary—averaging an astonishing 44.2 points per game over three seasons at Louisiana State University. This was before NCAA rules allowed freshmen to play varsity ball, and in an era without a shot clock or a three-point line. If those rules had been different, his numbers could have been even more jaw-dropping.
Maravich carried that flair into the NBA, finishing his 10-year career with averages of 24.2 points and 5.4 assists per game. He was one of the ultimate showmen, dazzling crowds with his incredible ball-handling and scoring ability. However, his playing days came at a time when the NBA was still trying to capture the full attention of American sports fans.
Flashy vs. Functional
While the comparison between Maravich and Reaves is intriguing, there’s a key difference. Maravich’s flashy style was often for the sake of entertainment. Reaves, on the other hand, isn’t trying to put on a show—his creative playstyle is born out of necessity. Without elite athleticism or blazing speed, he’s had to rely on skill, craftiness, and basketball IQ to make an impact.
And make an impact he has. Despite going undrafted, Reaves continues to prove doubters wrong, gaining respect across the league and beyond. He’s not the most physically dominant player on the court, but his ability to find ways to contribute—whether by scoring, playmaking, or making smart defensive plays—makes him invaluable to the Lakers’ success.
The Road Ahead
If Reaves keeps up this level of play, his future looks incredibly bright. He may not have the same path as a lottery pick or a hyped-up rookie, but his steady improvement and undeniable talent have made him a player to watch. Could he become an All-Star in the near future? It’s a real possibility. One thing is certain—he’s already become an integral part of the Lakers, and his story is still being written.
For now, fans can enjoy watching Reaves grow into his role and continue to refine his game. Whether it's through his signature behind-the-back dribble, his improved shooting, or his ability to step up in big moments, he’s proving that hard work and perseverance can take you a long way in the NBA.
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