How Rui Hachimura first noticed Austin Reaves star potential

How Rui Hachimura First Noticed Austin Reaves' Star Potential

The Los Angeles Lakers have had a mixed start to the 2025-26 NBA season without LeBron James, but one player has stood out: Austin Reaves. Lakers forward Rui Hachimura recently shared when he first realized Reaves had special talent.

Hachimura's First Impression of Reaves

“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,’” Hachimura recalled.

This moment gave Hachimura insight into Reaves’ skill and his potential to become an important player for the Lakers.

Reaves' Growth and Impact This Season

Reaves has steadily improved since his breakthrough 2022-23 season.
He is off to the best start of his NBA career in 2025-26.
Through the first five games, he averages 34.2 points, 10 assists, and 5.6 rebounds with a 60% shooting accuracy.
His standout performances include scoring 51 points against the Sacramento Kings and 41 points versus the Portland Trail Blazers.

With LeBron James sidelined due to sciatica and Luka Doncic injured, Reaves has taken on a significant role and is excelling under pressure.

Summary: Rui Hachimura first saw Austin Reaves' star potential three years ago, and Reaves has since evolved into a leading force for the Lakers, especially during their 2025-26 season challenges.

BasketNews.com — 2025-10-31