Rui Hachimura's Surprise About Austin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura admitted he was unaware of teammate Austin Reaves until Reaves made a remarkable play against Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2023.
Emergence of Austin Reaves
The Lakers have managed this season without LeBron James and Luka Doncic, with Austin Reaves stepping up significantly to fill the gap in star power. After averaging 20 points last season, Reaves set a career-high with 51 points and then achieved 16 assists plus a game-winning shot, elevating his game to a new level.
Undrafted to All-Star Caliber
Reaves, originally an undrafted player signed by the Lakers in 2021, has rapidly developed into an All-Star caliber talent. Rui Hachimura revealed how he only learned of Reaves after witnessing his move against Giannis shortly after joining the team.
“I am not gonna lie, three years ago when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before,” Hachimura said. “He was injured I think that time. And I think he came back on a game against Milwaukee. I think I remember, he made a move on Giannis around the top and he made a layup. I am like, ‘Oh OK, he got it, you know?’”
Reaves' Early Role and Development
When Reaves first played under former coach Frank Vogel in 2021, he was a scrappy guard who brought energy to a veteran roster featuring James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook. Though not expected to score heavily, Reaves quickly expanded his game.
Summary
Austin Reaves transformed from an unknown undrafted player to a key Lakers contributor, impressing teammates and fans alike with his rapid growth and clutch performances.
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