Rui Hachimura Didn't Know About Austin Reaves Until Crossing Up Giannis Antetokounmpo

Rui Hachimura Didn’t Know About Austin Reaves Until His Move Against Giannis Antetokounmpo

Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura shared that he didn’t know much about teammate Austin Reaves until a memorable play against Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2023. That moment came shortly after Hachimura was traded to the Lakers, and it left a strong impression on him.

“I am not gonna lie, three years ago when I got traded here, I honestly didn’t know about him before,” Hachimura said. “He was injured I think that time. And I think he came back on a game against Milwaukee. I think I remember, he made a move on Giannis around the top and he made a layup. I am like, ‘Oh OK, he got it, you know?’”

Austin Reaves’ Rise with the Lakers

Austin Reaves, who joined the Lakers as an undrafted free agent in 2021, has grown into an All-Star caliber player. Under head coach Frank Vogel in 2021, Reaves earned his role as an energetic guard supporting a veteran lineup that included LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook.

During the current season, with the Lakers managing stretches without LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Reaves has elevated his game to fill the void. After averaging 20 points last season, he went on to post a career-high 51 points, followed by a 16-assist performance and a game-winning shot, demonstrating remarkable progress.

Summary

Rui Hachimura’s candid memory highlights Austin Reaves’ rapid rise from an unknown undrafted rookie to a vital star for the Lakers, proving his place among the NBA’s top performers.

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Lakers Nation Lakers Nation — 2025-11-03

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