Lakers News: NBA Scout Speculates On Ceiling Of Austin Reaves
Reaves #Reaves
Nobody really wants to talk about this right now as the Lakers are in the middle of a potential road to their 18th championship but they will have a number of huge questions to answer when this summer rolls around.
Rob Pelinka and the rest of the front office were able to work some magic and completely change the culture of this year’s purple and gold squad. A number of strategic trades were able to assemble a new roster that actually features names that suit the skillsets of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
We’ve seen D’Angelo Russell find AD in his sweet spots in the pick & roll, Rui Hachimura has found his role as a scorer off of the bench, and Jared Vanderbilt has made his case to be one of the best perimeter defenders in the league while also cashing in some corner 3’s. All of these guys may not stay in LA next season but the biggest question has to be: What is the fate of Austin Reaves?
Reaves’ story this season is almost that of a Hollywood movie or even an NBA 2K MyCareer storyline. Un-drafted players don’t just usually find themselves on a franchise like the Lakers playing alongside Hall-of-Fame level talent and become a starter in the playoffs.
The Lakers were so dysfunctional for a while prior to this year’s trade deadline that they had to rely on a guy that was on a two-way contract with the team for some times. However, Reaves has proven that he will never be on such a contract again.
With the second-year guard set to hit restricted free agency this summer, the Lakers have the chance to match any contract an opposing franchise may offer him. The popular number floating around right now is 4-years, $80 million and Reaves has come out to confirm that he wants to make as much money as possible.
The Athletic’s Kelly Iko did his best to try and break down Reaves’ potential ahead of his big summer.
“Austin’s intriguing. He’s showing he can defend a bit, showing he can make shots. He’s aggressive getting to the basket. I think he has a competitiveness and confidence to him, willingness to do a lot of different things. Some versatility as well. The question is can he take that jump? Right now, he’s really appealing on his deal because of where he was signed and not picked. Now, if you’re paying him a certain amount, can he outkick his coverage? That’s where again, they’re going to have to figure it out.”
(Via The Athletic)
This will be a huge talking point as the postseason wraps up and free agency begins.
Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!