Over the past few years, there has been a growing belief that it was only a matter of time before Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reeves would be named to the NBA All-Star team. His performance has gradually improved each season, and this year, his numbers have reached superstar levels.
He averaged 27.8 points and 6.7 assists per game, shooting 50.3% from the field and 36.9% from three-point range. Despite the fierce competition at the guard position across the league, it’s hard for Lakers fans to imagine him not participating in this winter’s All-Star Game.
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Head coach J.J. Redick said Monday that he “absolutely” believes Reeves deserves to be named to this season’s All-Star team.
“It means a lot to him. He and I have talked about how surreal it is that he can play at this level, at this position. I obviously definitely think he should be an All-Star this year.”
Redick acknowledged Reeves’ work ethic and desire to maximize his potential.
“I think he’s the type of player that keeps wanting to get better, keeps wanting more, is willing to put in the work, is willing to work hard on the court and really go for it. He’s proven that time and time again.”
The coach also revealed that when he was first hired in the summer of 2024, he expressed to Reeves his belief in how good the defender could become.
“When I took the job, our first conversation was, ‘You’re going to be an All-Star.’
“By the way, I don’t say that to every player. Like, I actually say it because I believe it.”
Reeves is currently dealing with a calf strain that forced him to miss Los Angeles’ last three games. He is listed as doubtful for Tuesday’s game against the Phoenix Suns.
He is expected to opt out of his contract and become a free agent this summer. If he’s selected for this winter’s All-Star Game, one has to think he’ll end up getting more money on his next deal.
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This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: JJ Redick on whether Austin Reeves deserves to be an All-Star
