Ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory against the Phoenix Suns, guard Austin Reaves found himself unexpectedly displaced from the starting lineup, making way for the recent acquisition, Cam Reddish. Remarkably, Reaves embraced this change and delivered two solid performances coming off the bench.

In these two games, he tallied a combined 33 points and 11 assists on 12-of-23 shooting, playing a pivotal role in the Lakers’ resurgence with back-to-back wins, bringing the team to .500. Reaves had initially struggled at the start of the season, possibly due to fatigue stemming from his summer commitment with Team USA at the FIBA World Cup.

Although disappointed by the decision to move him to the bench, Reaves adapted well and shared insights into his approach to the game.

“For me, basketball is basketball,” Reaves remarked. “Whether I start, come off the bench, or play pickup back home, I aim to maintain the same approach. My family, particularly my brother, instilled in me from a young age the importance of playing the game right, even when shots aren’t falling. It’s about staying true to myself, trusting my instincts, and playing the game the way it should be played.”

The organization harbored no concern during Reaves’ initial struggle, recognizing his style of play even during shooting slumps. The expectation was that his shooting form would eventually improve. Whether the move to the bench spurred this resurgence or simply coincided with it remains uncertain. Now, the decision rests with Coach Darvin Ham regarding Reaves’ role, be it continued bench appearances or a potential return to the starting lineup.

LeBron James’ shin/calf issue not seen as serious

James missed Sunday’s victory against the Portland Trail Blazers due to a calf and shin problem. Although issues with the lower leg typically warrant careful treatment, Coach Ham doesn’t perceive the situation to be a significant concern.

“He had some issues with that shin that he hurt last game. So just being proactive. We don’t want to run him into the ground this early, so it’s an opportunity where he can get some treatment and not force it. So he’s day-to-day.”

Ham reassured that he doesn’t view the injury as a serious concern, emphasizing the team’s decision to prioritize James’ rest in preparation for the upcoming series of games.

“I don’t think it’s anything major. But the fact that is caused a lot of discomfort in a sensitive area in one of his lower extremities, having the time to have him sit out, manage that, and try to get him ready for the next stretch of games beyond this one, became the top priority.”