Los Angeles Lakers rookie Austin Reaves has experienced both ups and downs at the start of the season. However, since transitioning to a sixth-man role, Reaves has shown significant improvement. In the recent victory over the Houston Rockets, Reaves played a crucial role, contributing 17 points, six rebounds, and six assists. His notable moment came in the form of a deep 3-pointer with just 24 seconds left, giving the Lakers a three-point lead. Reaves displayed confidence in these critical moments, emphasizing his belief in himself when LeBron James passed him the ball.

“I just believe in myself,” the Lakers guard said when asked about his clutch shot. “Bron made a good pass, and I thought I was open. They kept telling me it was really deep. I don’t think I understood how far it was but just tried to get a good look and make a shot.”

While Austin Reaves may not have immediately recognized the significance, it was evident to everyone watching as the shot went through the net. The fans inside the Crypto.com Arena erupted in celebration. Observers also took note of Reaves pointing in the direction of Bronny James after making the crucial basket, a gesture that Reaves confirmed was intentional.

“Yeah, I’ seen him up clapping and celebrating,” the Lakers guard added. “In those moments, the adrenaline kind of takes over, and you just have fun with it. But yeah, that was towards him.”

Austin Reaves attributes his success to the confidence he has in himself, a quality that has played a crucial role in his career. While some players may shy away from attempting such deep shots, Reaves, with his self-assurance, embraces those moments. Despite having seemingly expanded his shooting range this season, Reaves emphasized that it is not a specific focus for him; rather, it is the belief in his abilities that allows him to take and make critical shots for the Los Angeles Lakers.

“Oh, no, I just tried to take good shots,” Reaves noted. “Hopefully, make a lot more shots going for but just try to play the game the right way and take good shots, and do whatever I can do to help the team be successful.”

Since transitioning to a role with the reserves, Austin Reaves has demonstrated increased efficiency. He is averaging 13.7 points, six rebounds, and six assists, shooting at an impressive rate of 50.9% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Reaves remains a significant contributor to the success of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Austin Reaves plays the game ‘the same’ regardless of whether he starts

Austin Reaves’ performance has seen improvement since transitioning to a bench role, but his style of play and focus have remained consistent. The Lakers guard emphasized that he strives to maintain the same approach regardless of his role on the team.

“I mean, basketball is basketball for me,” Reaves said. “Start, come off the bench, go play pickup back home. I try to play the same way regardless of the situation. And yeah, that’s really it.