How Rui Hachimura First Noticed Austin Reaves' Star Potential
The Los Angeles Lakers have had a mixed start to the 2025-26 season without LeBron James, but Austin Reaves has stood out as a bright spot. Lakers forward Rui Hachimura recently reflected on the moment he first recognized Reaves' potential as a rising star.
First Impressions of Reaves
Hachimura admitted that when he was traded to the Lakers three years ago, he was not familiar with Reaves due to an injury.
“I’m not gonna lie, three years ago, when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before. He was injured, I think, at that time. I think he came back against Milwaukee. He made a move on Giannis at the top and finished with a layup. I was like, ‘Ooh, okay, he got it.’”
That game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where Reaves confidently challenged Giannis Antetokounmpo, marked the moment Hachimura realized Reaves’ skill and promise.
Reaves' Growth and Current Season
Since then, Reaves has steadily developed his game. Following a breakthrough 2022-23 season, he is now delivering the strongest start of his NBA career. In the first five games of this season, Reaves is averaging 34.2 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds on 60% shooting.
- Scored 51 points against the Sacramento Kings
- Posted 41 points in a game versus the Portland Trail Blazers
With LeBron James sidelined for sciatica and Luka Doncic out, Reaves has taken on a heavy responsibility and is excelling under pressure.
Rui Hachimura’s early recognition of Reaves’ talent has proven accurate as Reaves emerges as a key leader for the Lakers this season.
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