How Rui Hachimura First Saw Austin Reaves’ Star Potential
The Los Angeles Lakers have experienced an uneven start to the 2025–26 season without LeBron James, but one player has clearly stood out—Austin Reaves. His emergence has caught the attention of teammates and fans alike.
Hachimura’s First Impression
Lakers forward Rui Hachimura recalled the exact moment he realized Reaves had star potential. It happened during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks when Reaves confidently challenged Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I’m not gonna lie, three years ago, when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before. He was injured, I think, at that time,” Hachimura said. “I think he came back against Milwaukee. He made a move on Giannis at the top and finished with a layup. I was like, ‘Ooh, okay, he got it.’”
That moment convinced Hachimura that Reaves was more than a role player—he had the skill and poise to become a core part of the Lakers.
Reaves’ Rise Since That Moment
Since then, Reaves has shown steady improvement. After his breakout 2022–23 season, he has continued to elevate his game. This year, through the first five games, he is averaging 34.2 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field.
- Scored 51 points against the Sacramento Kings
- Recorded 41 points versus the Portland Trail Blazers
With LeBron James still recovering from sciatica and Luka Doncic out of action, Reaves has taken on a larger role, thriving under pressure and becoming one of the Lakers’ most consistent contributors.
Author’s Summary
Rui Hachimura’s memory of Austin Reaves challenging Giannis Antetokounmpo marked the start of acknowledging Reaves as a rising star driving the Lakers through a tough season.