Austin Reaves, one of the most improved players in recent years, made his comeback for the Los Angeles Lakers following a 19-game absence. The undrafted rookie from 2021 has developed into a standout performer this season. Reaves returned on Tuesday night at the Barclays Center against the Brooklyn Nets, contributing 15 points, four rebounds, and two steals in nearly 21 minutes off the bench as the Lakers secured a 125-109 victory.
The Lakers have approached Reaves’ return with caution due to a calf strain he suffered on Christmas Day during a game against the Houston Rockets. A re-aggravation of the injury sidelined him for nearly two weeks, potentially delaying his comeback. Head coach JJ Redick is gradually easing him back into the lineup, allowing Reaves to regain his rhythm before reinstating him as a starter and lifting his minute restrictions.
Tyrese Haliburton Shares Insight on Reaves’ Playing Style
Before Reaves’ return, Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton praised him on the Mind The Game podcast with LeBron James, revealing that he has been studying Reaves’ unique approach to drawing fouls to improve his own game. Haliburton explained,
“He was real honest with me, and I didn’t understand it at the time,”
adding,
“But as I’ve watched you guys play more, I watch him play more, I’m seeing the way he does such a great job of getting to chest, tangling arms, making all these perfect reads to get to the free throw line is just something I’m really trying to focus on adding through rehab and as I watch the game.”
One of Reaves’ biggest strengths is his ability to get to the free-throw line, currently averaging a career-high 8.6 attempts per game. His skill in drawing fouls began to emerge during his sophomore college season but has grown significantly this year. Both players bonded in 2023 while representing Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, where they helped lead the team to the semifinals before falling to Germany. The team then narrowly missed out on winning the bronze medal after a loss to Team Canada in overtime.
Reaves Reflects on His First Game After Injury
Following the game against the Brooklyn Nets, Reaves spoke to reporters about his cautious approach to returning during the Lakers’ ongoing eight-game road trip. He had hoped to come back earlier but prioritized being fully healthy before stepping back onto the court. Reaves stated,
“I wanted to make sure I was 100% good,”
and continued,
“Really wanted to play the other night against the Knicks. Love playing there. Wish I could have been able to get out there and help the team, but just didn’t feel right and woke up this morning and felt really good and gave it the go right before the game and had fun.”
Despite his absence, the Lakers managed a strong road trip performance, winning five out of eight games. As they return home, the team will take advantage of a few days of rest before beginning an eight-game homestand starting Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Implications of Reaves’ Return for the Lakers’ Season
Reaves’ gradual reintegration into the lineup is crucial for the Lakers as they seek to maintain momentum during a pivotal stretch. His ability to draw fouls and contribute offensively adds a valuable dimension to the team’s attacking options. With veteran leaders like LeBron James and guidance from coach JJ Redick, Reaves is positioned to positively influence the Lakers’ chances as they push further into the season. Watching how quickly Reaves regains his form and increases his playing time will be an important storyline in the coming weeks.
