Lakers News: Austin Reaves, East Star Became Fast Friends On Team USA

Maybe Reaves can recruit some players to join the Lakers down the line...

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has seen his entire life change in the course of one summer. He signed a massive deal to remain in LA, and he has been participating with Team USA in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

It has been a whirlwind of a ride for the former undrafted player, but one that he has worked towards his entire life. Reaves really stepped up his game last season for the Lakers, helping him earn all these opportunities.

During his time with Team USA, he has gotten the chance to get to know some of the game's brightest stars. As any NBA fan knows, these Team USA rosters are an opportunity for the players to try and recruit each other.

Reaves has a chance to make his case for the Lakers, and it seems that he has been getting close with a few of the other players on the roster. One of which is Brooklyn Nets forward Mikal Bridges. Bridges joked about their building friendship when talking to the media.

“I don’t like him,” Bridges said. “I don’t like his a–. It’s gon’ be like that.”

Per Rappler YouTube Channel

Bridges has seen a rise in his own game over the last season as well. Upon being traded to Brooklyn, he saw himself take on an entirely different role, and he quickly thrived in it.

If Reaves and Bridges continue to be close, it could pay off down the line. Maybe this is the start of a recruiting campaign to get Bridges to take his talents to Los Angeles.

“But, I think just the personalities and stuff – I don’t know, I think it was just – basically the first day it was just he’s cool and just stupid making jokes and stuff,” Bridges said. “And it just built from there. He’s a nut. He’s a goof. Just know that. It’s always him. He play too much. Obviously, I play around and make some jokes too.”

Per Rappler YouTube Channel

It’s nice to see a member of the Lakers playing for Team USA, and having this opportunity. Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but Reaves seems to be liked around the league. Players appreciate his work ethic and his game on the court. And at the end of the day, that is what really matters to most players.

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