Even in LeBron James’ absence, the LA Lakers are thriving. A major part of the credit goes to Luka Doncic, however, forgetting Austin Reaves isn’t an option. The 26-year-old shooting guard’s perfect symphony with the Serbian Sensation is working for the Purple and Gold. But let’s not forget the additional role AR has on the court, off the court, and on the sidelines. Guess what, he’s turning out to become a big brother figure for the rookies on the team. And to say he’s doing a brilliant task would be an understatement.
While talking about Reaves and his ‘big bro’ duties at the Lakers, we cannot miss out on Dalton Knecht. The 23-year-old rookie went through a rollercoaster ride not too long ago. Remember, the Lakers traded for him in exchange for the Hornets’ Mark Williams? Neither did that trade see the end of time, nor did Knecht get to wear a different jersey. However, keeping aside the odd turn of events, Austin Reaves has some words of advice for Dalton that he expressed on The Young Man and The Three podcast’s latest episode.
“It’s really just for him to be. I think that when he does get himself in trouble, it’s when he’s trying to think too much,” AR said about Knecht. “But we’ve played a lot of pickup in the summer. I’ve seen what he’s capable of doing, how hot he can get from three. He can get to the rim, and he’s athletic—something that I know me and you wish we had.” Reaves gives his honest verdict on DK’s athleticism, “I’m jealous every day I see him go dunk one. I’m just like, man, I wish I could do that. But like I said, it’s really just more so just be him.”
Jan 25, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht (4) before the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Austin Reaves praises Dalton Knecht‘s natural ability, emphasizing that he performs best when he doesn’t overthink. He recalls their summer pickup games, highlighting Knecht’s scoring ability, especially from three, and his athleticism, which Reaves admits he envies. He admires Knecht’s ability to get to the rim and dunk, something he and others wish they could do. Reaves believes Knecht needs to play his game without overcomplicating things.
Most importantly, AR isn’t just trying to make things easy for the Lakers rookie, Reaves revealed the human side of the beginners affair. But, he is also taking leadership roles for JJ Redick’s squad as many had guessed Reaves was capable of doing.
Moreover, the Los Angeles Lakers are facing the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday after losing to them on March 14. Therefore AR’s important locker room message would be crucial for the team if they want to compete against the mighty force
Austin Reaves sends a strong message to his teammates ahead of the Nuggets face-off
The Lakers are gearing up for a battle against the Nuggets, and Austin Reaves isn’t backing down. Fresh off a 125-109 win over the Spurs, he addressed the challenge ahead. “They are a really good team that has really good players that play really good together. I feel like we have the same, we gotta be locked in and ready to compete on both ends,” Reaves said to the media.
When asked if past playoff clashes fuel the fire, he didn’t sugarcoat it. The Lakers have struggled against Denver, and they know it. But this time? They’re ready to fight. AR said: “I don’t think so. I think every game is different, but you have the same mentality going in. And obviously, they just kicked our ass the last couple of postseasons. And we wanna return the favor, but you wanna beat everybody you play.”
The Lakers sit fourth in the West, the Nuggets third. This showdown will be huge for playoff seeding. But, Denver has owned L.A., winning 14 of the last 18, including back-to-back playoff heartbreaks. Nonetheless, the Lakers have shown a fight. They nearly stole one short-handed and crushed Denver at full strength. No LeBron or Rui this time, but Reaves believes. It’s time to break the curse.
Thus, Austin Reaves is stepping up—on the court, in the locker room, and as a leader. He’s guiding rookies like Dalton Knecht, embracing the fight, and keeping the Lakers locked in. Denver has haunted them for too long, but this time feels different. No LeBron or Rui? No excuses. Reaves believes. The Lakers are ready to battle.
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