The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal NBA season, and much of the attention is focused on rising star Austin Reaves. After a breakout 2023 season and an impressive run with Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, Reaves is expected to take a significant leap in 2024, and the Lakers need him to perform at his best if they are to contend for another championship. With the recent buzz around Reaves’ continued development, it’s becoming clear that the Lakers see him as a critical piece of their present and future, which is why trade discussions involving Reaves are off the table.

Reaves’ Rise to Prominence: Why He’s So Important to the Lakers

Austin Reaves wasn’t a highly-touted prospect coming out of college, but his journey with the Lakers has been nothing short of impressive. In just a short span, Reaves has proven himself to be much more than a role player. His ability to score efficiently, create for others, and play solid defense has made him a fan favorite and a trusted option for head coach Darvin Ham. In the 2023 playoffs, Reaves showed he could thrive in high-pressure moments, hitting clutch shots and making key plays alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Reaves’ unique s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set fits perfectly within the Lakers’ system. He’s a high IQ player who excels in making the right decisions, whether it’s knocking down open threes, driving to the basket, or setting up his teammates. His ability to create offense both on and off the ball makes him a versatile weapon for the Lakers, who have relied heavily on his presence to balance their lineup.

With LeBron aging and Anthony Davis’s health always a concern, the Lakers need a third star to emerge—and that player could be Austin Reaves.

Lakers News: Heavy Buzz Around Reaves’ Resurgence

As the new season approaches, reports from Lakers News and other outlets have been heavy on the idea that Austin Reaves is primed for a resurgence. While his numbers last season were solid, it’s his potential to further elevate his game that has the Lakers organization excited.

There are a few key reasons why the Lakers are counting on Reaves to take the next step:

1. Improved Confidence and Aggressiveness: After his strong performances with Team USA, Reaves’ confidence has skyrocketed. He played meaningful minutes on the international stage, gaining valuable experience while competing against elite competition. This newfound confidence is expected to translate into a more aggressive approach with the Lakers, where he will be more willing to take charge on the offensive end and act as a secondary playmaker.
2. Versatility and Fit with the Stars: Reaves’ ability to play multiple positions gives the Lakers flexibility in how they utilize him. Whether he’s running the offense, playing off the ball, or defending on the perimeter, his s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set complements the likes of LeBron and AD. As the Lakers adjust their rotation, Reaves will likely play significant minutes, especially in closing lineups, thanks to his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
3. Potential Third Star: The Lakers have long been searching for a consistent third option to complement LeBron and AD. Reaves has shown flashes of being that player, and if he can continue his upward trajectory, he may solidify himself as the Lakers’ third star. His offensive versatility allows him to take pressure off the stars, giving them more freedom to conserve energy throughout the regular season.

Why the Lakers Trade Talks Are Off the Table

Given Reaves’ importance to the team, it’s no surprise that the Lakers have taken him off the table in any potential trade discussions. Despite the team’s desire to improve their roster, trading Reaves is no longer a consideration. His development is seen as critical to the Lakers’ future success, and the front office views him as part of the franchise’s core moving forward.

Several factors have played into this decision:

• Long-Term Potential: At just 25 years old, Reaves is entering his prime and has already shown that he can thrive in the spotlight. The Lakers recognize that trading him could disrupt the continuity they are building. In a league where young, s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁ed two-way players are highly valued, Reaves’ upside is something the Lakers can’t afford to part with.
• Team Chemistry: Reaves has developed strong chemistry with LeBron, AD, and the rest of the team. His humble attitude and work ethic have earned the respect of his teammates, and his presence on the court has led to positive results. Disrupting that chemistry by moving him in a trade could risk derailing the team’s progress.
• Contract and Value: Reaves is on a team-friendly contract after signing a four-year, $54 million extension in the offseason. Given his production and potential, this is considered a bargain for a player of his caliber. The Lakers know that finding a player of similar impact for that price would be extremely difficult, which is why they are committed to keeping him in their plans.

What Reaves Needs to Do This Season

For Reaves to become the best version of himself this season, there are a few areas where he can continue to improve:

1. Consistency as a Scorer: While Reaves has shown the ability to score in bunches, maintaining consistent offensive production will be key. If he can raise his scoring average, it would provide a huge boost to the Lakers’ offense, particularly on nights when LeBron or AD are limited.
2. Defense: Reaves has already proven himself to be a solid defender, but to truly become a two-way star, he’ll need to continue working on guarding elite perimeter players. With his improved physical conditioning and experience, he’s capable of becoming a reliable option on defense, especially in critical matchups.
3. Leadership on the Floor: As Reaves continues to grow, the Lakers will need him to take on a larger leadership role, particularly when LeBron and AD are off the floor. His ability to lead second units and maintain the team’s offensive flow will be crucial to the Lakers’ success throughout the season.

Conclusion: The Future is Bright for Austin Reaves

Austin Reaves’ growth is essential for the Lakers’ title hopes this season, and the franchise’s decision to take him off the trade table speaks volumes about their belief in him. If Reaves can become the best version of himself this season—more aggressive, more consistent, and more confident—the Lakers will have found their third star and positioned themselves as serious contenders in the Western Conference.

Lakers Nation is ready for Reaves to take that next step, and all signs point to him being ready to deliver.