Austin Reaves had a breakout 2024-25 campaign with the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and nearly 4.5 rebounds per game over 73 starts.
He delivered several standout performances and stepped up in the brief injury absence of Lakers’ superstar LeBron James, exploding for 27.9 points, 8.3 assists, and 6.6 rebounds in nine games, including a 45-point outburst against the Indiana Pacers on February 8.
During the offseason, Reaves has maintained a tradition of hosting an annual basketball camp in his home state, Arkansas, where he mentors youth players. Speaking with the media, he emphasized enjoyment over early results when asked about molding kids into stars, specifically bringing up James.
“I want them to have fun, that’s the main thing,” the fourth-year guard said. “I’ve said this a million times, you’re not going to turn a kid into LeBron James in two days.”
This drew reactions from NBA fans.
“Austin loves basketball,” said one.
“More people should have this approach," one added.
“Looks like he hasn’t come out the gym to rest,” one fan said.
“He’s a basketball guy,” another fan wrote.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves
© Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Others mentioned Reaves looks thinner.
“Damn he looks very thin right here?” a third fan wondered.
"AR please hit the gym this summer," said one. "You need to come back a little bulkier and less of a defensive liability," one added.
"Bro I thought he would have been a bit more muscular he looks skinnier if anything," one said.