Sat Oct 26 03:50:00 UTC 2024: Key Points from the Article:

1. **Expectations for Austin Reaves**: Prior to last season, there were high expectations for Lakers guard Austin Reaves to emerge as the team’s third star. While he had a solid season, some perceived it as underwhelming.

2. **Impact of New Head Coach**: With JJ Redick now the Lakers’ head coach, Reaves is expected to have an enhanced offensive role, but he emphasizes team success over individual accolades. He believes winning games is the primary goal.

3. **Team Depth**: Reaves highlighted the Lakers’ depth, mentioning that multiple players can step up and contribute to victories, including notable stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

4. **Structural Changes**: Reaves praised the new coaching staff’s strategies, suggesting that a structured approach can elevate the team’s performance, having relied too much on talent in the previous season.

5. **Rob Pelinka’s Confidence**: Lakers GM Rob Pelinka expressed strong support for Reaves, noting an increase in his confidence during offseason practices. He compared Reaves’ potential growth to that of Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, while clarifying he isn’t imposing those expectations on him.

6. **Focus on Team Success**: Both Reaves and Pelinka emphasize the importance of utilizing players’ strengths within a structured game plan for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

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