Austin Reaves Details Thought Process Behind Frequent Trips to the Line
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Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves said his knack for earning free throws is less about “foul-baiting” and more about creating space to score, explaining his approach during a recent appearance on the “Mind the Game” podcast.
“I think that’s an art in itself,” Reaves said. “I don’t want to go and get fouled at 17 feet and throw a shot up at the rim. If I do a low pickup and you have your hands down there, you’re going to be scared to foul me, so you’re going to back off. And if you don’t, you’re going to foul me. It’s more to get to where I want to go than it is anything.”
The 27-year-old has emerged as a breakout star in the 2025-26 season, becoming the Lakers’ No. 2 scoring option behind Luka Doncic. Reaves’ ability to weave past defenders and adjust speeds in the paint routinely forces opponents to reach, often putting Los Angeles in the bonus early in quarters.
Reaves’ foul-drawing tactics have drawn the attention of peers around the league; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton has reportedly studied the Lakers guard’s film in search of similar tricks. The added trips to the stripe have helped position Los Angeles as a dangerous postseason matchup.
Even without whistles, head coach Darvin Ham’s staff believes Reaves can impact the offense thanks to a stronger frame that allows him to absorb contact and finish. The guard, who went undrafted out of Oklahoma, recalled that former Sooners coach Lon Kruger once told him he had an NBA future—guidance that still motivates him.
The Lakers next play at Crypto.com Arena on Mar. 12, 2026, where Reaves will look to continue his efficient scoring streak.
Source: LakersNation.com
