Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves’ life has come a long way after signing on as an undrafted free agent in 2021. Reaves ultimately emerged as a standout performer in LA, joining the big leagues as he held his own alongside stars like Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
And while James is still playing with the Lakers, Davis was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in February. Despite the opposing teams, Reaves hasn’t lost his respect for Davis, speaking fondly of the Mavericks star as they squared off during the Thanksgiving game on Friday.
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Lakers’ Austin Reaves Speaks on Playing Against Mavericks Star Anthony Davis
Sidelined for multiple games with a calf strain, Davis made his return against the Lakers. Reaves outshone everyone on the court, leading the Lakers to a 129-119 victory with a game-high 38 points. During the game, Reaves and Davis exchanged uniforms.
“I mean, he’s one of the best players to ever touch a basketball. So, I don’t know why he wanted my jersey. But for me to get his, is pretty fun.” – Austin Reaves on exchanging uniforms with Anthony Davis after the game tonight pic.twitter.com/Ht9aevb4uk
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 29, 2025
Speaking of his interaction with Davis, Reaves shared a heartfelt message for his former teammate: “I mean, he’s one of the best players to ever touch a basketball. So, I don’t know why he wanted my jersey. But for me to get his, is pretty fun.”
Furthermore, Reaves had immense respect for Davis and his mentorship as a veteran.
“I got a lot of love for AD. He is a big reason that I am where I am right now,” Reaves added. “From day one, he was telling me to be myself, don’t be anybody else, continue to work and really just be myself on the court, so I owe him a lot, I wish him nothing but the best.”
Reaves finished the game with 38 points, eight rebounds, and three assists, while shooting an impressive 80% from the field and 75% from the three-point line.
Davis, who made his return, scored 12 points, five rebounds, and as many assists while shooting 60% from the field.
Reaves Spoke About His Increasing Chemistry With LeBron James and Luka Dončić
Davis was sent to Dallas in a blockbuster trade for Luka Dončić. And while the Lakers — with their 14-4 win-loss record — are better off from the trade, they have to readjust with their new roster.
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Reaves, hyping both Dončić and James, said: “…Like you said, Luka draws so much attention and Bron’s obviously Bron, they are going to get the majority of the attention and I kind of run around out there and find open spots and make shots.”
The 27-year-old is aware of his role in the team, hoping to propel them to a championship in 2026.