Luka Doncic and LeBron James have developed a strong partnership since the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. Austin Reaves' impact should not be ignored, though. Reaves' presence creating a big three is debatable, but the Lakers guard has impressed alongside Doncic. According to StatMuse, Reaves is averaging 18 points, five rebounds and five assists since LA acquired the former Mavs star.

Reaves, who is in his fourth NBA season, is averaging 19.2 points, 6.1 assists, 4.3 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game so far in the 2024-25 campaign. He is also shooting 44.6 percent from the field and 36 percent from beyond the arc.  The 26-year-old has gone from a fairly reliable sixth man to a consistent starter for a team with championship aspirations.

Reaves is establishing himself as a star. There is no question that Doncic and LeBron are the best players on the Lakers. James is still playing well at 40 years old, while Doncic is only entering his prime as a superstar. With that being said, Reaves' emerging stardom is difficult to overlook.

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He has continued to improve throughout his time in the NBA. There were questions about Doncic's fit alongside LeBron and Reaves since all three play at their best with the ball in their hands. The trio has made it work up to this point, though. Doncic has not even played his best basketball and Los Angeles is still finding ways to win games.

Overcoming the top teams in the Western Conference such as the Oklahoma City Thunder will certainly prove to be a challenge. This Lakers team is not guaranteed to reach the NBA Finals by any means. Los Angeles is making noise in the standings, though. The Lakers' current 36-21 record is good for fourth place in a highly competitive Western Conference.

With Austin Reaves becoming a third star alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, LA's postseason outlook is intriguing.