Austin Reaves is quietly one of the best third fiddles in the NBA.
The fourth-year guard is averaging a career-high 18.8 points and 5.9 assists per game for the Lakers.
He has gone to another level when LeBron James — who is out with a groin injury — is sidelined, averaging 26.5 points and 9.8 assists in games without the NBA legend this season.
And it doesn’t appear the addition of Luka Doncic is hurting Reaves’ production — at least not yet.
With the new Lakers superstar seemingly still playing himself into shape, Reaves took on a huge role in L.A.’s offense Monday night in Brooklyn with James on the bench.
In 36 minutes, Reaves scored 17 points on 14 shots with 10 assists.
It was the first time Reaves had hit those numbers in the same game since Doncic came to town.
Lakers vs. Bucks odds
| Team | Spread | Odds | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakers | +6.5 (-105) | +200 | o224.5 (-115) |
| Bucks | -6.5 (-115) | -250 | u224.5 (-105) |
I’m keeping an eye on Reaves when the Lakers travel to Milwaukee to take on the Bucks on Thursday, who are built on the interior defense of Brook Lopez and Giannis Antetokounmpo, but have a hard time slowing down opposing guards.
Playing opposite of Doncic with a big Lakers lineup, Reaves will likely draw Damian Lillard or Gary Trent Jr., neither of whom is a defensive stopper.
Reaves has proven he can dominate this flimsy Milwaukee backcourt, averaging 23.5 points and 8.5 assists in two games against the Bucks last season.
The Lakers will still be without Rui Hachimura, leaving a few extra scoring opportunities for Reaves to pick up.
Betting on the NBA?
I expect the ball to be in Reaves’ hand once again Thursday night.
Bet on the counting stats to follow for the Oklahoma product.
THE PLAY: Austin Reaves Over 29.5 points + assists (-105, BetMGM)
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Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.