2023 Lakers Breakout Guard Believes He Has Yet to Gain Respect of Majority of Fans

It's time to make people believers this season.

One of the strengths that the Los Angeles Lakers have built over the last few seasons has been their ability to find undrafted talent. They have helped turn multiple players' careers into productive NBA stints, and it has been impressive to watch.

The latest has been guard Austin Reaves, who just signed a big four-year deal with the team this offseason. Originally, Reaves was seen as a projected three-and-D type of guard, but his overall growth has seen him turn into the third-best player on the Lakers.

He really stepped up his game last season, especially in the playoffs. Reaves showed that he could take control of an offense and lead them, opening up a new level to the LA game plan.

However, even with his growth and more national exposure, Reaves still doesn’t believe that a majority of fans respect his game or know who he is.

“I don’t think it shifts at all,” Reaves said of his mentality. “I think there’s still a good majority of people that probably still don’t think I’m that good — or any good at all.” (edited)

Per The Athletic

Reaves recently was selected to play for Team USA, and so far, he has been playing great. He has earned more respect and recognition, all while getting in reps to prepare for the upcoming season.

The secret is out now around the league and players themselves understand just how good he can be. The Lakers are counting on him to continue to improve his game as the year progresses as well.

If he can grow his game even further, the Lakers will become a very scary team. They already should be one of the top contenders, but with a more advanced version of Reaves, the rest of the NBA should watch out.

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