How Rui Hachimura first noticed Austin Reaves star potential

How Rui Hachimura First Noticed Austin Reaves' Star Potential

The Los Angeles Lakers have experienced a mixed start to the 2025-26 season without LeBron James, but Austin Reaves has emerged as a standout player. Lakers forward Rui Hachimura recently shared the moment he first recognized Reaves' unique talent.

First Impressions of Reaves

Hachimura recalled, “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.”

He continued, “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 made Hachimura realize Reaves possessed genuine skill and the potential to become a key player for the Lakers.

Reaves' Rise This Season

Since then, Reaves has steadily improved, following a breakthrough 2022-23 season. He is now off to the best start of his NBA career.

In the first five games of 2025-26, Reaves averages 34.2 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds.
He is shooting an impressive 60% overall.
His notable performances include a 51-point game against the Sacramento Kings and a 41-point game versus the Portland Trail Blazers.

Leading Amid Team Challenges

With LeBron James still recovering from sciatica and Luka Doncic sidelined, Reaves has taken on a significant role and thrived despite the pressure.

Austin Reaves has been carrying a heavy load and thriving under pressure.

Author's summary: Austin Reaves’ emergence as a key Lakers player shines as he leads the team with impressive scoring and playmaking amid star absences this season.

BasketNews.com — 2025-10-31