Collin Sexton says Austin Reaves emerging as Lakers leader

The Lakers lost more than LeBron James’ production when he signed with the 76ers. They also lost the voice that had defined their locker room for years.

Austin Reaves appears ready to help fill that leadership opening.

New Lakers guard Collin Sexton praised Reaves’ approach in a video shared by the team, identifying him as one of the players already setting the standard.

“Each and every day when he’s in the gym, he’s ready to work,” Sexton said. “No complaints out of him. He’s one of the leaders on the team. He comes in with the attitude of pushing each other, but also allowing others to push him.

“That’s his one thing. He impacts winning, and he impacts the game in so many different ways. I definitely look forward to playing with him.”

Those comments matter because the Lakers are asking Reaves to become more than Luka Doncic’s running mate.

Doncic will remain the face of the franchise and the center of the offense. Reaves, however, has continuity with coach JJ Redick and an established understanding of what the Lakers are trying to build.

His leadership will not be measured by speeches. It will be measured by whether he can help blend nine newcomers into a functioning team while accepting more responsibility himself.

Sexton has not even played a regular-season game alongside Reaves, so this is an early impression. It is also an encouraging one.