Austin Reaves spoke about the importance of teammate LeBron James’ performance in their 122-101 Game 6 win against the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference semifinals. “I’m happy for him,” said Reaves, who described James as wanting the series win “badly”.
The Lakers’ superstar player LeBron James posted 30 points, nine rebounds and nine assists against the Warriors to progress to the Western Conference Finals, where they will face the Denver Nuggets.
While James has won a championship against the Warriors before, their previous postseason meetings saw Golden State defeat James’ Cleveland Cavaliers teams in the 2015, 2017, and 2018 NBA Finals. The latest win against the Warriors is a crucial step towards the Lakers’ goal of adding another title to their name.
Reaves acknowledged James’ impressive form in his 20th season at the age of 38, calling it “unprecedented”. The rookie also cherished the opportunity to be a part of James’ journey to a potential championship in his debut season with the Lakers.
It's special. pic.twitter.com/GCmHM3fklE
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) May 13, 2023
The Lakers’ season has been a rollercoaster ride, starting with a 2-10 record before qualifying for the playoffs through the play-in tournament. However, their recent form has been impressive, with James leading the team to victory against the defending champions.
With the Lakers aiming for their 18th NBA title, a win against Denver in the Western Conference Finals would put them alone atop the league lead. Reaves and the Lakers’ focus is now on the Nuggets, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday.
This win against the Warriors also marks the first time a Steve Kerr-led team has lost in a non-Finals playoff series. While James’ ultimate goal seems to be to win another championship, getting some payback against the team that beat him three times in the Finals could also feel good.
Overall, the Lakers’ victory against the Warriors was significant, and Reaves acknowledged the importance of being a part of James’ journey toward a potential championship. With the Western Conference Finals now in sight, the Lakers look to be focused on defeating Denver and advancing to the NBA Finals.
The Emergence of Austin Reaves: How the Lakers’ Young Guard Secured a Victory Against the Warriors in the NBA Playoffs
Austin Reaves was a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers in their recent NBA Playoffs win over the Golden State Warriors. The 24-year-old guard put up 23 points, five rebounds, and six assists, and hit a halfcourt shot at the halftime buzzer that proved to be a crucial turning point in the game.
LeBron James himself has praised Reaves for his efforts, taking to Instagram to share Reaves’ post about the buzzer-beater and photos from the game, with the caption “HIM!!!!!!!!”
LeBron James showing love to Austin Reaves after his big game and halfcourt buzzer-beater at halftime in Game 6.
You love to see it #Lakers #NBA pic.twitter.com/S2fBSrPQHX
— Kit Guinhawa (@BeatKit22) May 14, 2023
Reaves’ performance was especially impressive given his status as a relatively unknown in the league. He went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft and joined the Lakers on a two-way contract, spending most of the season with their G League affiliate team, the South Bay Lakers.
But Reaves has proved his worth in the NBA Playoffs, showing his versatility on both ends of the court. He has played a key role in the Lakers’ success, providing important scoring and playmaking off the bench.
Reaves has also been praised for his confidence and fearlessness, traits that were on full display in the Lakers’ win over the Warriors. His half-court shot at the halftime buzzer was a statement of intent, showing that he was not intimidated by the big stage or the opposition.
Overall, Reaves’ performance in the NBA Playoffs has been a bright spot for the Lakers, who have faced adversity throughout the season due to injuries and inconsistent form. His contributions have been invaluable in helping the team reach the West Finals, where they will face the Denver Nuggets.
For Reaves, the experience of playing alongside LeBron James and other NBA superstars looks to have been a dream come true. He has spoken of his admiration for James and the way he leads by example, both on and off the court.
And for Lakers fans, Reaves’ emergence as a key player in the NBA Playoffs has been a pleasant surprise, providing hope for the future and a reminder of the team’s resilience and fighting spirit.
