Former Lakers champion Danny Green said Austin Reaves is a No. 3, not a No. 2, in today’s NBA, arguing contenders need elite bigs or wings among their top players. He said Reaves’ role alongside Luka Doncic leaves him doubtful the Lakers can win a title.
The article says the Lakers extended Reaves after his improvement last season and are relying on him as Doncic’s second star. It says he would need to average 25 points per game and improve his defense and facilitating for the roster to work.
The article predicts that if the Lakers fail to contend this season, Reaves could be the first to go in a trade for an older, more proven star. It mentions Kyrie Irving as a name rumored for a possible deal, but says that would depend on factors including the Mavericks wanting to get younger. It also says the Lakers traded their last two valued draft picks to Utah for Walker Kessler, limiting their trade options.
