The Los Angeles Lakers' impressive 8-3 start to the 2025-26 season has been fueled by exceptional play from multiple players, but perhaps none more surprising than the continued evolution of Austin Reaves.

Head coach JJ Redick recently opened up about the guard's transformation from role player to co-leader alongside superstars LeBron James and Luka Dončić.

NBA (@NBA) on X JJ Redick on Austin Reaves' 51-point performance tonight: "He was fantastic... scored the basketball at an incredible level."

"The biggest thing was him taking a step forward as a leader and recognizing that it's as much his team as it is LeBron's team or Luka's team," Redick explained in a conversation with ESPN's Dave McMenamin. "And acknowledging that he does have innate, natural leadership skills and being able to tap into those more consistently."

Redick didn't stop there, delivering what could be interpreted as both a challenge and validation for the fifth-year guard. "I told him, he's out of excuses. You're no longer the undrafted guy who's a young player. You're one of the [main] guys now, and he's been very responsive to that," the Lakers coach added.

Career Year Taking Shape

The results speak for themselves. Reaves has taken Redick's words to heart, posting career-best numbers through the season's first 11 games.

He's averaging 30.2 points, 9.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field. 

NBA (@NBA) on X Austin Reaves went OFF tonight 🤯 51 POINTS (career-high) 11 REBOUNDS 9 ASSISTS 6 TRIPLES W He is the FIFTH @Lakers player this century to score 50+ POINTS in a game ‼️

With LeBron James sidelined to start the season due to sciatica, Reaves has shouldered even more responsibility alongside Dončić in the Lakers' backcourt.

The Arkansas native has scored over 20 points in each of his first seven appearances, including multiple 30-point performances that have helped keep the Lakers competitive in the Western Conference standings.

Lakers Finding Success Early

The Lakers' hot start has positioned them just a half-game behind the second-place team in the highly competitive Western Conference, despite missing James for all 11 games so far. 

Dončić has been spectacular, leading the NBA in scoring with 37.1 points per game to go with 9.4 rebounds and 9.1 assists, but it's been Reaves' willingness to step into a true leadership role that has allowed the team to thrive during this stretch.

Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) on X JJ Redick on Austin Reaves: "I knew he was good. I didn't realize he was this good. He's a fantastic basketball player"

The guard's development hasn't gone unnoticed by his teammates either. Marcus Smart, another veteran voice in the locker room, praised Reaves' emergence following a recent victory, noting his growth both on and off the court.

New Identity Under Redick

Perhaps most impressive has been Reaves' ability to balance his increased scoring load while maintaining his playmaking responsibilities and defensive intensity.

He's become a reliable closer in tight games, delivering clutch performances when the Lakers need them most—including a game-winning shot against Indiana earlier this season.

As the Lakers continue navigating the early portion of their schedule, Redick's faith in Reaves appears well-placed.

Washed LakersvsHaters (@notlakersgm) on X “It’s a pleasure to be around this guy every single day.” - JJ Redick on Austin Reaves

The undrafted player from Oklahoma has transformed into one of the team's core pieces, proving that leadership isn't just about pedigree or draft position—it's about embracing responsibility when your team needs it most.

With James expected to return within the next few weeks and the Lakers riding high, Reaves' evolution into a true co-leader could be the difference between another disappointing playoff exit and a deep postseason run.