Rui Hachimura Didn't Know About Austin Reaves Until Crossing Up Giannis Antetokounmpo

Rui Hachimura Didn’t Know About Austin Reaves Until Crossing Up Giannis Antetokounmpo

Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura admitted he first noticed Austin Reaves when Reaves crossed up Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2023. At the time, Hachimura had recently joined the team and was still getting to know his new teammates.

“I am not gonna lie, three years ago when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before,” Hachimura said. “He was injured I think that time. And I think he came back on a game against Milwaukee. I think I remember, he made a move on Giannis around the top and he made a layup. I am like, ‘Oh OK, he got it, you know?’”

Reaves, originally undrafted when he signed with the Lakers in 2021, has grown into a key player for the team. Under then-head coach Frank Vogel, he began as an energetic guard known for hustle rather than scoring. Over the next few seasons, with stars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook leading the roster, Reaves steadily expanded his offensive capabilities.

By 2025, Reaves had developed into an All-Star caliber talent, averaging 20 points per game last season. He recently set career highs with 51 points in one game and 16 assists in another, including a game-winning shot, proving his evolution from undrafted rookie to reliable leader.

Even without consistent appearances from key superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Reaves has helped the Lakers maintain momentum through his playmaking and scoring ability.

Author Summary

Rui Hachimura’s comments highlight Austin Reaves’ remarkable rise from an overlooked undrafted player to one of the Lakers’ most impactful stars in recent seasons.

more

Lakers Nation Lakers Nation — 2025-11-03

More News