We are officially one week into the NBA season and the level of competition across the league has been unreal.

With both Luka Doncic and LeBron James injured, Austin Reaves has become the focal point of the Los Angeles Lakers’ offense. Head coach JJ Redick has put the ball in Reaves’ hands and the guard has responded averaging 46.

Austin Reaves has become a breakout star for the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2025-26 season, which could lead to him asking for a bigger contract in the summer.

NBA Week 1: Austin Reaves, Cooper Flagg lead one thing I'm excited about for all 30 teams originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Lakers vs. Trail Blazers ended up with Portland winning 108-122 on the road despite Austin Reaves' 41-point game on Monday.

Reaves has rewarded the Lakers by improving his game each season and showcasing his ability to embrace a leadership role when necessary. That said, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz’s recent trade idea would require the Lakers to send their No. 3 scoring option to a Western Conference foe.

The progression of Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves going from undrafted free agent to star over a handful of years has been nothing short of sensational.

Lakers guard Austin Reaves got an update on his recent ankle injury for the team’s game against the Timberwolves.