In the aftermath of a stunning blowout loss to the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves spoke about a young and upcoming player he faced during his most recent matchup.
Although the majority of attention is given to Luka Dončić and LeBron James when discussing the stars on the Lakers, Reaves is making a strong case as the team’s second-best player with his explosive offense.
Since neither James nor Dončić played in the game against the Celtics, Reaves was left to carry the offensive load. After the loss, he discussed the impact that a Celtics player had on him and the Lakers.
Austin Reaves Heaps Praise on Jordan Walsh After Lakers-Celtics Showdown
While the Celtics won the 2024 NBA championship, their current roster looks nothing like the team fans grew accustomed to. Not only did Jayson Tatum sustain a serious injury, but the organization also traded away several key members of its championship roster.
As a result, many did not know which version of the Celtics would emerge this season. Despite starting 0-3, the team has regained momentum and currently holds a 14-9 record.
Jaylen Brown undoubtedly deserves most of the credit for keeping the Celtics afloat as their best player. However, 21-year-old Jordan Walsh has also proven to be a valuable asset.
Walsh is on a four-year rookie contract worth $7.6 million and has recently elevated his play after being given more time on the court. He recorded 17 points, four rebounds, two blocks, and a steal against the Lakers in 26 minutes. Although his offensive numbers were impressive, it was Walsh’s lockdown defense on Reaves that prompted Reaves to shower him with praise.
“He just plays hard as crap every single possession,” Reaves said of Walsh. You don’t take a possession off. His ability, his length, his athleticism. He’s physically gifted. Moves really well. I could see him being one of the best defenders in the league for many years to come. He made shots tonight. Good player.”
Walsh finished the game on 6-of-7 shooting. His wingspan and defensive intensity hampered Reaves and the Lakers’ other scorers throughout the game. Walsh also finished as the Celtics’ third-leading scorer.
Walsh, the 38th pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, is averaging career highs of 6.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in 20.7 minutes for the Celtics. Prior to the win over the Lakers, he recorded a career-high 22 points on a perfect 8-of-8 shooting in a 146-101 victory against the Washington Wizards.