Austin Reaves has been one of the biggest surprises of the 2024-2025 NBA season, and his recent performance against the Phoenix Suns has impressed his coach, JJ Redick.

© Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesAustin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers brings the ball down court against the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter during game five of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 29, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Austin Reaves‘ play, highlighting his ability to generate offense and his impact on the team in the recent 123-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns in Game 2 of the NBA season.

Reaves was instrumental in the Lakers’ comeback, scoring 26 points, grabbing 4 rebounds, dishing out 8 assists, stealing 3 balls, and blocking 1 shot. His effectiveness in field goal and three-point shooting was key to the team’s victory.

After the game, JJ Redick emphasized Reaves’ importance in the team’s offensive scheme: “Some of that offense was very intentional in the second quarter, and that’s what got him going a little bit. We felt like there was a specific thing that we could do, that we could get good offense out of our action. He manipulated that really well, got us back in the game. The flow in the offense got back.“

Redick also praised Reaves’ versatility and talent: “He’s a guy who has thrust and a pace to his offensive game in half court. We need that. He was just fantastic in the second half. I knew he was a great player before I took this job. I’ve been around him since July, and every day he just keeps getting better and showing more. I didn’t realize he was this good. I knew he was good, but I didn’t realize he was this good.“

Head coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts as he watches play during a 110-103 Lakers win over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the season home opener at Crypto.com Arena on October 22, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)