Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has found himself in the rumor mill recently despite not being on the court as he continues to recover from a calf strain. This is due in large part to the words of LeBron James’ agent Rich Paul on a recent episode of his “Game Over” podcast alongside Max Kellerman.
In the episode, Paul suggested the Lakers should consider trading Reaves to the Memphis Grizzlies for Jaren Jackson Jr., believing the big man would be a better long-term fit alongside Luka Doncic. While this was just Paul’s thoughts and doesn’t suggest this is something the Lakers would even consider, it did still spur a bit of controversy.
Whether or not there were any serious issues between Reaves’ camp, the Lakers and Paul seem unlikely, but there was reportedly a discussion had at halftime of the game on Tuesday night against the Atlanta Hawks. Reaves’ agent Reggie Berry approached Paul to talk about that trade scenario he suggested, via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin:
One of Reaves’ agents, Reggie Berry of AMR Agency, approached Paul on the sideline near half court at halftime of the Lakers-Hawks game Tuesday. The two spoke for more than five minutes and the topic of conversation was Paul’s public trade scenario regarding Reaves, sources told ESPN.
This is the concern that many have with someone like Paul, who actively represents many of the NBA’s biggest stars, having a platform like this podcast where he can say these things. Of course, Paul has every right to speak his mind on any subject, but in this case with Reaves, there is potential blowback not just on himself, but on James and the Lakers as well.
Paul’s idea of pairing Doncic with a more defensive-minded big man is fine, but no matter how much LeBron separates himself from his agent’s public thoughts and words, many will always question whether these could be thoughts from the future Hall of Famer being spoken through Paul.
Berry having this discussion with Paul was a good thing and likely served to clear the air and now hopefully everyone involved will be able to move forward as Reaves works hard to get past this injury and return to the court for the Lakers.
JJ Redick credits Austin Reaves for staying engaged while injured
Reaves is doing everything in his power to get back on the court for the Lakers, but while he remains injured head coach JJ Redick has been impressed with how engaged he has been in many different facets for the team.
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