Austin Reaves: A Potential Dark Horse for the NBA All-Star Game

The Los Angeles Lakers have a massive and passionate fanbase that has the potential to influence the outcome of the NBA All-Star Game ballot. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis are the team’s star players, there’s a rising fan favorite who might garner significant support—Austin Reaves.

Reaves, an undrafted free agent, has captured the hearts of Lakers fans with his impressive performances. Despite going undrafted, he has worked his way up to become a key player for the team, often considered their third-best player behind James and Davis. His journey from undrafted rookie to a significant contributor has endeared him to fans.

On the season, Reaves is putting up solid all-around numbers, averaging 15 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His shooting splits of .468/.362/.870 highlight his efficiency on the court. Notably, Reaves’ numbers have improved since coming off the bench, showcasing his versatility and impact in different roles.

One key aspect contributing to Reaves’ popularity is his chemistry with LeBron James. He has seamlessly integrated into the team and has been a valuable asset in the closing lineup. Additionally, Reaves is among the betting favorites for the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, signaling his impact coming off the bench.

While the Western Conference boasts deep guard talent, with players like D’Angelo Russell in the mix, Reaves’ unique journey and standout performances could resonate with fans during the All-Star Game voting. His inclusion in the Sixth Man of the Year race might also contribute to increased fan support.

Although the guard competition in the West is fierce, Lakers fans could rally behind Reaves, pushing him into consideration for an All-Star selection. While making the All-Star team might be a challenging feat given the competitive landscape, the passionate Lakers fanbase has a history of rallying behind their favorite players, making anything possible in the realm of All-Star voting.