Bold prediction No. 3: Austin Reaves will struggle in this series
Even though Austin Reaves has emerged as one of the most important players for the Los Angeles Lakers this season, it won’t be easy for him to make the pivot to the postseason. The difference between regular season play and postseason play is real. And, generally, first-time regular-season players struggle with it. Or, at the very least, it usually takes time for them to adjust to the different style and pace of play.
I predict that will be the case for Reaves. The big question for the Lakers is whether or not he can make the flip in time to play a huge factor for the team in this series. The last thing the Lakers need or could afford to have to happen is Reaves let the moment get too big for him.
Over the final two months of the season, Reaves emerged as a hugely important player for the Lakers. During the months of March and April combined, Reaves averaged 18 points and six assists on 57 percent shooting from the field and 43 percent shooting from the 3-point range.
It’d be unfair to expect Reaves to put up those numbers in the playoffs, but they surely need him to play well if the Lakers are going to beat the Grizzlies.