The Los Angeles Lakers weren’t able to beat the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday but they came close.
In the end, the Bucks walked away with the 115-106 victory, handing the Lakers yet another disappointing loss.
At this point, Lakers fans expect to see their team face defeat so they look for other aspects of the game to celebrate.
For example, they still applaud certain players who did really well even though it wasn’t enough.
On Thursday, Austin Reaves was one of those players.
"He's posting that on Instagram tonight!"
Austin Reaves crossover on Giannis 👀pic.twitter.com/ouHqDZ7SSy
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) February 10, 2023
Reaves produced 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists during the night.
During one possession, Reaves went toe-to-toe with Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the best players in the league and a man much taller than him.
But that didn’t intimidate Reaves, who expertly read Antetokounmpo and was able to move past him for an easy layup.
This was a wonderful play from Reaves, who has become one of the most beloved men on the Lakers roster.
2022-23 is Reaves’ second season with the Lakers and he has definitely improved a lot.
He is now producing 10.7 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists a game on 49.1% from the field.
Beyond the numbers, Reaves has a stamina and attitude that is impressive and strong.
He isn’t the biggest man on the court but he always plays as if he is.
Plus, he reads his teammates well and seems to always be ready for an assist or to dish the ball to others.
This is why loyal followers of the Lakers are so happy with Reaves.
It is also why they were so adamant that the team not trade him.
Last week the Lakers attempted to add Kyrie Irving to the roster and offered a lot for him, although Reaves wasn’t part of the package.
The Nets counter-offered and demanded Reaves head to Brooklyn and the Lakers shot that deal down.
It is clear that the team values Reaves as much as the fans do.
NEXT: The Lakers’ Championship Odds Haven’t Budged
