Austin Reaves' 2021 Team: Lakers Roster & Highlights

Let's dive into the exciting journey of Austin Reaves and his team in 2021! For basketball enthusiasts, knowing the details of a player's early career is super interesting. In 2021, Austin Reaves was making his mark with the Los Angeles Lakers, and we're going to explore all the cool aspects of that time.

Austin Reaves Joins the Lakers

Austin Reaves' path to the NBA is a classic underdog story. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA draft, he didn't let that stop him! He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2021 NBA Summer League. This was his chance to prove himself, and boy, did he take it. His performance in the Summer League was impressive enough to earn him a two-way contract with the Lakers. This meant he'd be splitting his time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate.

But Reaves quickly showed that he was ready for the big stage. His energy, hustle, and surprising skill set made him a valuable asset to the Lakers. By September 2021, the Lakers saw his potential and signed him to a standard NBA contract. This was a huge moment for Reaves and a testament to his hard work and dedication. Making it onto the Lakers roster was just the beginning.

Reaves' Impact on the Team

Austin Reaves wasn't just filling a spot on the roster; he was making a real impact on the court. As a rookie, he brought a level of energy and enthusiasm that was infectious. His teammates and coaches quickly recognized his potential. He became known for his high basketball IQ, his ability to make smart plays, and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

One of Reaves' standout qualities was his versatility. He could handle the ball, create opportunities for his teammates, and knock down shots when needed. Defensively, he was always active, hustling for loose balls, and disrupting opponents. This two-way ability made him a valuable asset off the bench.

Reaves also had a knack for making clutch plays. Several times throughout the season, he came up big in crucial moments, hitting important shots, or making key defensive stops. This earned him the trust of his teammates and coaches, who knew they could rely on him when the game was on the line. For a rookie, earning that kind of trust is a significant achievement.

Key Teammates and Coaching Staff

Being on the Lakers in 2021 meant Austin Reaves was surrounded by some of the biggest names in basketball. Playing alongside superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis was an incredible learning experience. These veterans provided guidance and mentorship, helping Reaves develop his game and adjust to the NBA level.

LeBron James, in particular, took Reaves under his wing, recognizing his potential and offering advice on various aspects of the game. Playing with such a legendary player was invaluable for Reaves' growth and development. Similarly, Anthony Davis, one of the league's premier big men, helped Reaves understand the nuances of playing alongside a dominant inside presence.

The coaching staff, led by head coach Frank Vogel, also played a crucial role in Reaves' development. Vogel and his assistants recognized Reaves' potential and gave him opportunities to showcase his skills. They provided him with the coaching and guidance he needed to improve his game and become a valuable contributor to the team.

Regular Season Performance

During the 2021-2022 regular season, Austin Reaves appeared in 61 games for the Lakers. While he didn't start every game, he consistently came off the bench to provide a spark. He averaged 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. These numbers might not jump off the page, but they don't tell the whole story. His impact went beyond the box score.

Reaves' energy and hustle were always noticeable. He played with a level of intensity that often changed the momentum of the game. Whether it was diving for loose balls, taking charges, or making timely steals, Reaves always found ways to contribute. His willingness to do the dirty work made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset to the team.

He also showed improvement throughout the season. As he gained more experience, he became more confident in his abilities. His shooting percentage improved, and he became more comfortable handling the ball and making plays. By the end of the season, he had established himself as a reliable player who could be counted on in key situations.

Playoff Run (or Lack Thereof)

Unfortunately for the Lakers, the 2021-2022 season didn't end with a playoff run. Despite having a roster filled with talent, the team struggled with injuries and consistency. They finished the season with a disappointing record and missed the playoffs.

However, even though the Lakers didn't make the playoffs, Austin Reaves' performance was still a bright spot. He showed that he could compete at the highest level and that he had a bright future in the NBA. The experience he gained during the regular season would prove invaluable as he continued to develop his game.

Key Moments and Highlights

There were several standout moments during Austin Reaves' rookie season that highlighted his potential. One memorable game was against the Dallas Mavericks in December 2021. With the game on the line, Reaves hit a game-winning three-pointer in overtime. The shot sent the crowd into a frenzy and solidified Reaves' reputation as a clutch performer.

Another highlight was his performance against the Orlando Magic in March 2022. Reaves scored a career-high 31 points, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. He shot efficiently from the field and made several impressive plays, proving that he could be a major offensive threat.

These moments, along with many others, demonstrated that Austin Reaves was more than just a role player. He had the potential to become a key contributor for the Lakers and a valuable player in the NBA.

The 2021-2022 Lakers Roster

To fully appreciate Austin Reaves' journey in 2021, it's important to understand the context of the team he was on. The 2021-2022 Lakers roster was filled with a mix of veteran superstars and young, up-and-coming players. Here's a look at some of the key players on that team:

• LeBron James: One of the greatest players of all time, LeBron James was the leader of the Lakers. His scoring, playmaking, and leadership were essential to the team's success.
• Anthony Davis: A dominant big man, Anthony Davis provided the Lakers with scoring, rebounding, and rim protection. When healthy, he was one of the most impactful players in the league.
• Russell Westbrook: Acquired in the offseason, Russell Westbrook brought his explosive athleticism and triple-double ability to the Lakers. While his fit with the team was sometimes questioned, his talent was undeniable.
• Carmelo Anthony: A seasoned veteran, Carmelo Anthony provided the Lakers with scoring off the bench. His ability to knock down shots made him a valuable offensive weapon.
• Dwight Howard: Another veteran, Dwight Howard brought rebounding and rim protection to the Lakers. His experience and physicality were important assets.
• Rajon Rondo: A crafty point guard, Rajon Rondo provided the Lakers with playmaking and basketball IQ. His ability to read the game made him a valuable contributor.
• Kent Bazemore: A defensive-minded wing player, Kent Bazemore brought energy and hustle to the Lakers. His ability to guard multiple positions was valuable.

The Coaching Staff

The Lakers' coaching staff, led by head coach Frank Vogel, played a crucial role in trying to maximize the team's potential. Vogel was known for his defensive expertise and his ability to develop young players.

Assistant coaches like Phil Handy, a renowned player development coach, also played a vital role in helping players like Austin Reaves improve their game. The coaching staff's guidance and mentorship were essential to Reaves' growth and development.

What Made the 2021 Lakers Unique?

The 2021-2022 Lakers were a unique team for several reasons. First and foremost, the team was filled with veteran players. With LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony, and Dwight Howard, the Lakers had a roster with a ton of experience. However, that experience didn't always translate to success on the court.

The Lakers also had a unique blend of offensive and defensive talent. With James, Davis, and Westbrook, the team had the potential to be an offensive juggernaut. But defensively, they struggled at times. Finding the right balance between offense and defense was a challenge for the coaching staff.

Ultimately, the 2021-2022 Lakers season was one of unfulfilled potential. Despite having a roster filled with talent, the team couldn't put it all together. Injuries, inconsistency, and a lack of chemistry all contributed to their struggles. However, even in a disappointing season, players like Austin Reaves emerged as bright spots, offering hope for the future.

Austin Reaves' Future After 2021

Looking beyond 2021, Austin Reaves has continued to develop into a valuable player for the Lakers. He has improved his game in several areas, becoming a more confident scorer, a better playmaker, and a more reliable defender. His role on the team has grown, and he has become an integral part of the Lakers' rotation.

Reaves' success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and willingness to learn. He has shown that he belongs in the NBA and that he has the potential to be a key contributor for many years to come. Lakers fans are excited to see what he can accomplish in the future.

Conclusion

Austin Reaves' journey with the Lakers in 2021 was a significant chapter in his career. From going undrafted to earning a spot on the Lakers' roster, Reaves showed that anything is possible with hard work and determination. His performance during the 2021-2022 season was a bright spot for the Lakers, and he has continued to develop into a valuable player. As he continues to grow and improve, Austin Reaves has a bright future ahead of him in the NBA.