With several key contributors from last season no longer on the roster, Austin Reaves says he is prepared to take on a bigger role for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Following the departures of LeBron James, Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton, Luke Kennard, and Rui Hachimura, Reaves is now the only player remaining who started games for the Lakers during the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
Speaking to reporters this week, the 28-year-old said he is willing to embrace whatever responsibilities head coach JJ Redick asks of him.
“Everybody knows it’s a completely different team,” Reaves said. “There’s going to be different things asked of different people, and if that’s what JJ and the staff asks of me, I’ll do it to the best of my ability.”
The payer also reflected on his recent free agency, making it clear that he never seriously considered leaving Los Angeles.
“My heart was in L.A. the whole time,” he said.
Reaves has played 5 seasons for the Lakers. He has averaged 15.8 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in 331 regular-season games.
Lakers Notes: Bronny, Kessler, Sexton, Reaves https://t.co/NGOduGNpTN
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 15, 2026
