Austin Reaves, an undrafted rookie in 2021, signed a $56 million, 4-year contract with the Lakers in the summer of 2023. During the 2023-24 NBA season, Reaves played all 82 regular-season games. While his durability was impressive, it made it difficult to gauge how the team would fare without him. However, his recent injury has finally highlighted his critical role in the Lakers’ success.
Reaves suffered a pelvic injury during a game against the Thunder, forcing him to miss the next three games against the Jazz, Timberwolves, and Heat. These three matchups underscored just how vital Reaves is to the Lakers’ performance. Here’s a breakdown of those games:
Lakers vs. Jazz: A Narrow Escape
The Jazz, who are clearly in rebuilding mode and not focused on winning this season, still managed to push the Lakers to the brink. In the final 1.6 seconds, Collin Sexton made a layup that would have put the Jazz ahead by one point. However, the Jazz coach called a timeout during the play, nullifying the basket. The Lakers narrowly escaped with a one-point victory, but the game revealed a lack of composure and execution in Reaves’ absence.
Lakers vs. Timberwolves: A 29-Point Blowout
Against the Timberwolves, the Lakers struggled from the start. They were outplayed in every quarter and trailed by 15 points after three quarters. Early in the fourth, the deficit ballooned to over 25 points, and the Lakers seemed to give up entirely. The result? A humiliating 29-point defeat.
Lakers vs. Heat: A 41-Point Collapse
Looking to bounce back after the loss to Minnesota, the Lakers faced the Heat. Instead of improving, things got worse. The Lakers fell behind by 8 points in the first quarter and 9 more in the second, trailing by 17 at halftime. The third quarter was disastrous—they were outscored by 16 points and trailed by 33 going into the fourth. Once again, the Lakers lost their fighting spirit and ultimately suffered a 41-point defeat.
Why Reaves’ Absence Matters
The Lakers’ consecutive blowout losses, by 29 and 41 points respectively, weren’t simply due to differences in talent. The real issue was the team’s lack of fight when falling behind, leading to complete collapses. If Reaves had been on the court, the Lakers may still have lost, but they likely wouldn’t have been dismantled in such a fashion. Here’s why:
1.Reaves’ Versatility:
Reaves is a skilled scorer with solid playmaking and ball-handling abilities. His ability to contribute on multiple fronts provides stability and flexibility for the Lakers’ offense.
2.Leadership and Mental Toughness:
Reaves is known for his relentless effort, regardless of the score. He’s one of the most determined players on the team, never giving up even when the Lakers are down big. This kind of attitude not only keeps games competitive but also inspires his teammates to keep fighting.
Conclusion
Reaves’ absence in these three games has exposed just how much the Lakers depend on him. His unique combination of skills and unyielding willpower makes him an irreplaceable part of the team. It’s no wonder the Lakers’ front office prioritized retaining him in 2023, locking him in with a 4-year, $56 million deal and refusing to entertain trade offers.
Without Reaves, the Lakers are a team lacking both cohesion and grit—a lesson they’ve learned the hard way.
