Home / Sports / Reaves Joins Mikan in Lakers History with 5,000 Points
Reaves Joins Mikan in Lakers History with 5,000 Points
14 Mar
Summary
- Austin Reaves surpassed 5,000 career points recently.
- He is the second undrafted player to score all points with Lakers.
- Reaves averages career highs, including 23.7 points per game.
Austin Reaves recently reached a significant career milestone, surpassing 5,000 points during the Los Angeles Lakers' matchup against the Chicago Bulls. This accomplishment places him in exclusive company as only the 46th undrafted player in NBA history to achieve this scoring mark.
For the Lakers, Reaves' achievement is particularly special. He is only the second undrafted player in franchise history to score all 5,000 career points with the team, joining the legendary George Mikan. This underscores his unique journey since entering the league in 2021 without being drafted.
At 26 years old, Reaves is experiencing a career-best season, averaging 23.7 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. His scoring average is the highest by an undrafted player since Moses Malone in the 1985-86 season and the highest by an undrafted Laker since Mikan in 1951-52.
Reaves has emerged as a crucial offensive asset for the Lakers this season, providing consistent scoring and contributing significantly alongside superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James. His ability to attack the basket, create his own shot, and hit perimeter jumpers makes him a difficult matchup for opponents and vital for Los Angeles' playoff aspirations.
