LeBron James’s Appreciation Grows for Austin Reaves’s Team USA Performance

LeBron James has left no doubt about his affinity for playing alongside Austin Reaves in LA. However, witnessing Reaves’s contributions on Team USA has seemingly deepened LeBron’s appreciation for the young talent.

LeBron’s role as a teammate has inspired numerous players to look up to him. Throughout his career, LeBron has forged strong friendships on the court, with some even translating into remarkable success stories – consider Dwyane Wade in Miami and Kyrie Irving in Cleveland.

Could this budding camaraderie between LeBron and Reaves similarly blossom into prolonged on-court achievement? Time will ultimately unveil the answer.

LeBron’s belief in Reaves has been evident from the start, even during Reaves’s days as a bench player with minimal playing time. Reaves’s dedication to contributing in whatever capacity he could resonated with LeBron and solidified their bond.

The essence of Reaves’s contribution lies in his remarkable versatility, which injects invaluable dynamism into the Lakers’ roster. Moreover, his ability to make clutch shots off the bench offers a fresh dimension to the team’s gameplay.

A significant endorsement arrived when renowned coach Steve Kerr inserted Reaves as one of the primary players off the bench. This move not only underlines the Lakers’ confidence in Reaves as a dependable role player but also signifies the trust placed in Reaves by one of the game’s most esteemed coaches.

Although Reaves may not be a Team USA starter, his prowess in performing under pressure remains consistent. This hallmark of his game was evident when he stepped up during crucial moments.

Gaining the trust of “The King” is no small feat and often requires time. Rarely does a 24-year-old earn consistent praise from a basketball icon of LeBron’s stature.

LeBron himself posted on his Instagram following Reaves’s halftime half-court buzzer-beater in Game 6:

“I mean like the tweet says, you just love to see it. You love to see LeBron enjoying his time still playing the sport with the supporting cast around him.”

This snapshot reflects the genuine joy LeBron derives from his time on the court, surrounded by a supportive cast.

Does LeBron’s presence enhance Austin Reaves’s performance? This question ignites intriguing discussions among basketball enthusiasts, setting the stage for a partnership that could mold into a driving force on the court.

LeBron James showing love to Austin Reaves after his big game and halfcourt buzzer-beater at halftime in Game 6.

You love to see it #Lakers #NBA pic.twitter.com/S2fBSrPQHX

— Kit Guinhawa (@BeatKit22) May 14, 2023

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Jeffrey Hinkle is the publisher of Charger Report. Follow Jeffrey on Twitter @JeffreyHinkle_ for more Chargers coverage.