How Rui Hachimura first noticed Austin Reaves star potential

How Rui Hachimura First Noticed Austin Reaves’ Star Potential

The Los Angeles Lakers started the 2025-26 season without LeBron James, facing some challenges, but one player has stood out: Austin Reaves. Lakers forward Rui Hachimura recently recalled the moment he realized Reaves had star potential.

Rui Hachimura’s First Impression

When Hachimura was traded to the Lakers three years ago, he didn’t know much about Reaves due to his injury at the time. He shared:

“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. 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.’”

This moment made Hachimura recognize Reaves’ skill and potential to become a key player for the Lakers.

Reaves’ Growth and Current Performance

Since that breakthrough, Reaves has steadily improved. Following his strong 2022-23 season, he is currently having the best start of his NBA career. In the first five games of the 2025-26 season, Reaves is averaging:

His scoring highlights include a 51-point game against the Sacramento Kings and a 41-point performance versus the Portland Trail Blazers.

With LeBron James still recovering from sciatica and Luka Doncic sidelined, Reaves has taken on a major role and is thriving under the pressure.

Author's summary: Austin Reaves has emerged as a leading force for the Lakers in the 2025-26 season, impressing with high scoring and poise amid key players’ absences.

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BasketNews.com BasketNews.com — 2025-10-31

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