LeBron James Shouts Out Austin Reaves After He Carries Lakers To Must-Win Victory
Injured Los Angeles Lakers All-Star small forward LeBron James, who has not appeared in a game since February 26th due to a right foot tendon injury, took to the Internet to celebrate backup LA shooting guard Austin Reaves, who scored a career-best 35 points last night to vanquish the Orlando Magic in a chippy, back-and-forth affair at Crypto.com Arena.
In just 30:27 off the bench, Reaves went 9-of-14 from the floor (1-of-4 from deep) but, more importantly, got to the free-throw line seemingly at well, where he went 16-of-18. He also chipped in six rebounds and six assists, posting a +25 during his minutes on the court. LA won, just barely, 111-105.
Reaves, a restricted free agent this summer, has quietly been putting together a great sophomore NBA season, and stands to earn a big raise wherever he goes. It would behoove LA to retain him for the right price. The Lakers can essentially opt to match any offer he gets by a rival club, or they can let him walk.
His hustle and activity in getting inside and collecting foul calls was the difference between winning and losing for the Lakers on Sunday night. Reaves may have singlehandedly salvaged his now-35-37 team's season.
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