The Los Angeles Lakers are no strangers to adversity, but the current challenge – an extended absence for LeBron James – is testing the team in new ways. Fortunately, Austin Reaves is there to help steer them through a tough period.
Expected to miss time until mid-November with injury, James leaves behind a major void in leadership, playmaking, and scoring.
Stepping into that space is Reaves, who has quickly become a focal point of the Lakers’ offense and a steadying presence during a crucial stretch of the season.
James‘ injury timeline has been a topic of significant discussion across the league. While the Lakers are hopeful for his return in a few weeks, they know these early-season games can shape playoff seeding later.
Rather than relying on a committee approach alone, the coaching staff has turned to Reaves to shoulder increased responsibilities. As one Lakers insider put it: “He’s grown from role player to a guy we trust to do more.”
The trust placed in Reaves hasn’t come out of nowhere. His rise over the past two seasons has been one of the Lakers’ most important storylines.
Originally undrafted, Reaves proved himself with efficient shooting, clever playmaking, and relentless competitiveness. Now, with James sidelined, he’s showing he can be more than a supporting piece – a driver of their offense.
Reaves has responded by increasing his scoring output, creating more off the dribble, and taking on more playmaking duties. In several recent matchups, he’s been entrusted with initiating sets and leading half-court possessions, something typically reserved for James.
His ability to draw fouls, hit tough mid-range shots, and make quick reads has allowed the Lakers to keep pace despite missing their superstar.
The weight of leadership without LeBron
Losing LeBron James for several weeks is never easy. His presence affects everything – from how defenses collapse to how the Lakers space the floor.
Opposing teams now key in on Reaves more aggressively, testing his ability to thrive as a primary option. Double-teams, traps, and tight perimeter coverage have increased, forcing him to evolve quickly.
But Reaves has not shied away. His efficiency remains strong, and his calm decision-making has helped the team avoid chaotic stretches that often sink squads missing their stars.
The Lakers have also relied more on complementary pieces like Anthony Davis, who’s carrying a heavy load in the paint. The duo of Davis and Reaves has been crucial in sustaining the team’s offensive flow.
With James out, Davis provides interior dominance, while Reaves gives them a perimeter and playmaking balance. This dynamic has allowed Los Angeles to remain competitive even against tough opponents.
Darvin Ham, the team’s head coach, has praised Reaves for embracing the moment. “He’s earned our trust,” Ham said recently.
“We’re not asking him to be LeBron, but we are asking him to lead in his own way.” That confidence reflects how deeply Reaves’ growth has been felt in the locker room.
A stronger team when LeBron returns
While much of the focus is on surviving James‘ absence, there’s a growing belief within the organization that this stretch could make the Lakers more dangerous in the long run.
Reaves developing as a primary option, even temporarily, gives Los Angeles a much-needed secondary engine behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
When James returns, defenses won’t be able to key in on him exclusively. The threat of Reaves creating offense forces opponents to stretch their coverage, opening up new offensive wrinkles.
That could give Los Angeles a much deeper attack than they started the season with. For now, Reaves is embracing the spotlight. He’s playing with confidence, leading with maturity, and proving that the team can rely on him in meaningful minutes.
If he continues at this pace, his performance during James‘ injury absence may not just be a temporary boost – it could be the foundation of a lasting role as a core playmaker for the Lakers.
Read the full article here
