Austin Reaves: From Undrafted Dude to Starting Stud (But How Many Starts Did He Actually Have?)
Let's be honest, folks. We all love a good underdog story. Austin Reaves, the unheralded rookie who clawed his way onto the Los Angeles Lakers and stole our hearts (and apparently some minutes from veteran players), has become a fan favorite. But there's one burning question that plagues NBA nerds and casual Lakers fans alike: how many games did Austin Reaves actually start?
How Many Games Has Austin Reaves Started |
From Summer League Star to Starting Streak
Remember that electrifying summer league performance? The dude looked like he could climb over LeBron for a dunk. Fast forward to the regular season, and Reaves wasn't just on the team, he was starting. He even earned himself some, shall we say, interesting nicknames (looking at you, "Hillbilly Kobe").
This wasn't a fluke. Reaves strung together a streak of 34 consecutive starts, dating back to the previous season! Respect.
The Plot Twist: Sixth Man Reaves Emerges
But then, something unexpected happened. The Lakers, in their infinite wisdom, decided to move Reaves to the bench. Gasp! Was this a sign of disrespect? A coaching conspiracy? Nope, turns out it unlocked a whole new side of Reaves' game. Coming off the bench, he became a spark plug, averaging a cool 15 points and 7 assists in his first game as a sixth man.
QuickTip: Scan quickly, then go deeper where needed.
So, the big reveal...
How Many Games Did Austin Reaves ACTUALLY Start This Season (as of July 3rd, 2024)?
Drumroll please... According to the ever-reliable source of basketball knowledge, your neighbor's uncle who used to play high school ball (and also Wikipedia), Reaves started 8 games this season before transitioning to a sixth-man role.
But wait, there's more! Reaves proved his versatility and solidified his role as a key contributor, regardless of whether he's tipping off or coming off the bench.
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
Now, onto some pressing FAQs...
How to channel your inner Austin Reaves?
Practice your three-pointer. Hustle hard. Develop a killer crossover. And maybe grow a charming mustache (optional, but highly encouraged).
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
How to convince your friends Reaves is the future of the Lakers?
Show them his highlight reel. Mention his work ethic. Remind them that championships are won with strong role players, not just superstars.
How to explain the whole "starting streak" thing to your significant other who just started watching basketball?
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
Just say he was playing really well and the coach liked him a lot. That should do it.
How to get Austin Reaves on your fantasy basketball team?
Draft him early! This dude's stock is on the rise.
How to be as awesome as Austin Reaves?
Be yourself, work hard, and believe in your dreams. (Also, maybe practice your jump shot a little.)