Austin Reaves: Stats and Potential of the Lakers' Undrafted Rookie Standout

Austin Reaves: The Undrafted Rookie Making Noise for the Lakers

Austin Reaves has been one of the pleasant surprises for the Los Angeles Lakers this season. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, Reaves signed a two-way contract with the Lakers and has exceeded expectations in his rookie campaign.

Reaves played college basketball at Wichita State and Oklahoma before going pro. He averaged 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game during his senior season at Oklahoma, showing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. However, concerns about his athleticism caused him to go undrafted.

Impressive Start to NBA Career

The Lakers took a flier on Reaves in summer league and he impressed enough to earn a two-way contract. His hustle, defense and three-point shooting have enabled him to carve out a steady role in the Lakers rotation.

In 41 games played so far, Reaves is averaging 7.0 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 21.5 minutes per game. He's shooting 46.4% from the field and 31.7% from three-point range. Advanced metrics like his 59.2% true shooting and 12.9 PER are solid for an undrafted rookie.

Well-Rounded Offensive Game

While Reaves lacks explosive athleticism, he makes up for it with craftiness and an advanced offensive skill set. He's able to score at all three levels with floaters, pull-up jumpers, drives to the rim and a smooth three-point shot.

Reaves is shooting 52.2% on two-point field goals this season, showing his touch inside the arc. He uses hesitations, step-backs and side-steps effectively to create space for shots. His floater is a go-to weapon when he gets into the paint but can't get all the way to the rim.

From three-point range, Reaves is making 1.2 threes per game at a 31.7% clip. He moves well without the ball and has a quick release when he gets the pass. Three-point shooting was one of his strengths in college and that has translated to the NBA level.

Playmaking Potential

Reaves is also a talented passer, especially for a wing player. He averaged over 4 assists per game in his last two college seasons. He sees the floor well and makes the right reads when defenses collapse on him.

For the Lakers, he's dished out 2.8 assists per 36 minutes. The Lakers offense often stagnates when LeBron James and Russell Westbrook are off the floor. Reaves' passing helps generate ball movement to find open looks.

As he gains more experience, Reaves has the potential to take on more of a playmaking load. Improving his pick-and-roll skills will help unlock his distribution abilities further.

Defensive Impact

Defense was considered a weakness for Reaves entering the NBA. However, he has held his own on that end and been a net positive defender overall.

Reaves competes hard on defense and navigates screens well. He also leverages his basketball IQ into making sound team rotations. The Lakers have been 5.2 points per 100 possessions better defensively with him on the court.

For a rookie, Reaves' defensive rating of 109.3 is solid. He will need to get stronger to handle defending bigger wings down the road. But thus far, his defense has exceeded expectations.

Ceiling as a Player

Austin Reaves has proven he belongs in the NBA with his play as a rookie. He should have a long career ahead of him as a versatile 3-and-D wing.

Reaves projects as a player who can average double-digit scoring with above average efficiency. His outside shooting, floater game and passing skills give him multiple ways to impact offense positively.

By hitting the weight room and honing his skills, Reaves can become a starting-caliber wing. He likely won't be a star player, but his high IQ and well-rounded game make him a valuable rotation piece.

The Lakers have found a hidden gem in Austin Reaves. His basketball savvy and skill set enable him to contribute despite his physical limitations. Reaves has all the makings of a long-term starter and key role player.

For an undrafted rookie, Reaves is ahead of the curve developmentally. The future is bright for him as he continues to establish himself in the league. Expect Austin Reaves to keep turning heads and proving his value in Los Angeles.

FAQs

Why did Austin Reaves go undrafted?

Reaves went undrafted mainly due to concerns about his athleticism and strength. At 6'5" and 185 lbs, he has a slim build and is not very explosive like other NBA wings. This caused teams to pass on him in the draft despite his skilled game.

What are Austin Reaves' strengths as a player?

Reaves excels at scoring on all three levels. He has a great floater and pull-up jumper inside the arc. He also shoots the 3-ball well and is crafty getting to the rim despite athletic limitations. Additionally, he's a talented passer especially for a wing.

How has Austin Reaves played on defense?

Defense was seen as a weakness for Reaves coming into the NBA. But he has held his own through hustle, positioning and basketball IQ. The Lakers have been much better defensively with him on the court.

What is Austin Reaves' ceiling as an NBA player?

Reaves projects as a long-term starter and high-level role player. He likely won't be a star but his versatile skill set allows him to positively impact winning. With development, he can be a double-digit scorer and above average defender.

How do the Lakers feel about Austin Reaves' rookie season?

The Lakers are very pleased with Reaves' rookie campaign so far. He has exceeded expectations and proven to be a rotation player despite going undrafted. The Lakers feel they found a diamond in the rough with Reaves.