Steve Nash Makes Bold Austin Reaves Prediction This Season

Austin Reaves’ 2024–25 Season

Reaves took another major step forward last year, proving his value as both a scorer and playmaker. In 78 regular-season games, he averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 46.0% from the field.

Those numbers ranked him 34th in scoring, 92nd in rebounding, and 24th in assists league-wide, a significant leap for a player who went undrafted in 2021.

The Lakers finished the 2024–25 campaign as one of the top teams in the Western Conference, and Reaves’ consistency was a major reason for their strong offensive production.

After going undrafted out of the University of Oklahoma in 2021, he signed a two-way deal with Los Angeles and quickly earned a standard NBA contract through hard work and reliability.

By his second season, Reaves became a full-time starter and a trusted closer in tight games. The Lakers rewarded him with a four-year, $54 million contract in 2023 — a deal that has since been called one of the best bargains in the league.

According to cap expert Keith Smith of Spotrac, Reaves could become eligible for a five-year, $240 million extension if he declines his 2026–27 player option and re-signs with the Lakers next summer.

That potential payday reflects his value both on and off the court, as he’s become a fan favorite and one of the team’s most marketable young players.

Nash’s high praise adds to the growing recognition of Reaves as one of the NBA’s most improved players. The two-time MVP is known for his attention to detail and understanding of player development, making his belief in Reaves particularly meaningful.

If Reaves maintains or improves on his 2024–25 averages, he would statistically align with other Western Conference guards who have made recent All-Star teams.