Austin Reaves has steadily grown into a valuable contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers, and his efforts haven’t gone unnoticed by head coach JJ Redick.
In a recent interview, Redick drew an eye-catching comparison between Reaves and former NBA star Jamal Crawford. Known for his electrifying scoring and bench presence, Crawford carved out a legendary 20-year career. So when Redick made the connection, Reaves was both surprised and honored.
“I haven’t heard that one, but I like JJ a little more now,” Reaves said in response, clearly flattered by the comparison.
Redick’s observation wasn’t just based on style, it was rooted in substance. Both Crawford and Reaves have a natural ability to break down defenses with creative shot-making and a smooth handle.
They’re both adept at drawing contact, getting to the free throw line, and facilitating the offense when needed. These attributes have helped Reaves emerge as a key piece of the Lakers’ lineup, often energizing the team with his versatile play.
Crawford, for his part, was a three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year who suited up for nine different franchises between 2000 and 2020. Today, he’s recognized as one of the most effective bench players in league history and now serves as an NBA analyst for NBC Sports.
Why Reaves might follow in Crawford’s footsteps
Though still early in his career, Austin Reaves has shown flashes of the kind of impactful bench play that defined Crawford’s legacy. Now entering his fifth NBA season, all with the Lakers, Reaves continues to elevate his game.
During the 2024-25 campaign, he posted averages of 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, an impressive stat line that helped the Lakers reach the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games.
While Reaves has stepped into larger roles, his performance off the bench remains particularly noteworthy. Throughout his career, he has averaged 10.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game in a reserve role.
During the 2023-24 season, his bench production reached a career-best with averages of 15.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. Those numbers reflect a player who can change the pace of the game and influence outcomes without necessarily being in the starting five, a hallmark of elite sixth men like Crawford.
The Sixth Man of the Year award could very well be within reach for Reaves in the coming seasons. His efficiency, scoring creativity, and ability to manage tempo make him a standout in that role. If he continues on this trajectory, Redick’s comparison may prove more than just a compliment, it could be a sign of what’s to come in Reaves’ career.
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