The Los Angeles Lakers have been short-handed to start the season, but that hasn’t stopped Austin Reaves from lighting up the scoreboard. With both Luka Doncic and LeBron James sidelined, Reaves has taken control of the Lakers’ offense—and he’s thriving.
Over his last three games, the 26-year-old guard has posted impressive scoring lines of 51, 41, and 28 points, including a 16-assist effort in a win over the Timberwolves. Head coach JJ Redick confirmed that Doncic’s injuries—a finger sprain and leg contusion—are minor, and he’s expected back soon. James, however, is still recovering from sciatica and may not return until mid-November.
### Lakers Star Takes Center Stage
In the meantime, Reaves has embraced being the focal point of the Lakers’ offense. His shot creation, playmaking, and efficiency have all spiked in his expanded role. Still, the reality is that when Doncic and James return, Reaves’ scoring opportunities will likely shrink.
He will probably shift back to being a complementary piece—the steady third option that made him a fan favorite last season.
That said, not everyone thinks Reaves’ breakout stretch is temporary.
### Former NBA Veteran Makes Bold Claim About Reaves and James
Nine-year NBA veteran Chandler Parsons shared a surprising take on FanDuel TV, predicting that Reaves could actually outproduce LeBron statistically this season.
> “At the end of the season, I think Austin Reaves’ numbers will be better than LeBron James’ numbers,” Parsons said.
> “How many minutes is LeBron James gonna play? How many games is he gonna play? [Austin Reaves] is going to be, hopefully, consistent throughout the whole season.”
> *(FanDuel TV)*
Parsons cited James’ age and workload management as the main reasons for his projection. James will turn 41 in December, and while the Lakers haven’t revealed a specific rest plan, it’s expected that he’ll play fewer than the 70 games he appeared in last season.
### Lakers Veteran Still a Force
Not everyone agreed with Parsons’ assessment. Former NBA star Lou Williams quickly pushed back, reminding fans that James remains one of the league’s most productive players when healthy.
> “We’re talking about LeBron James,” Williams said.
> “We’re also talking about somebody who still averaged 24, 25 points last year. Until we see something change in his play, besides injuries, he’s still LeBron James.”
> *(FanDuel TV)*
James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists last season—elite production for any player, let alone one entering his 23rd season. Even if he sees a dip in minutes or scoring, his impact on both ends of the court remains undeniable.
### The Lakers’ Bottom Line
Reaves’ emergence has been one of the early bright spots for the Lakers. With injuries testing their depth, his ability to take over games has kept them competitive and energized.
Parsons’ prediction may sound bold, but it speaks to how far Reaves has come in just a few seasons. From an undrafted rookie, he has grown into one of the Lakers’ most trusted players.
Once Doncic and LeBron return, Reaves’ numbers will likely balance out—but his confidence and importance to the team aren’t going anywhere.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/los-angeles-lakers/bold-lakers-prediction-reaves-lebron-james/
