Austin Reaves isn’t just saying goodbye to a teammate; he’s adjusting to an entire NBA career without LeBron James, and he’s openly admitting he still hasn’t “processed it yet” after catching sight of his former mentor in a Philadelphia 76ers jersey. It’s a wild new landscape for Reaves, who’s known nothing but playing alongside the King since he entered the league.
LeBron Shocks The League With Philly Move
Talk about an unexpected blockbuster, right? This past free agency was absolutely insane in the NBA, and everyone’s eyes were locked on LeBron James. It all started when the Los Angeles Lakers got swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. After that, James was reportedly considering retirement, but the King ultimately decided to keep playing for what’s an unprecedented 24th season in the league. The real shocker? He let the Lakers know he wouldn’t be re-signing. ESPN, citing Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and Shams Charania, broke the news that James was playing elsewhere. Just like that, the biggest name in basketball was on the move, and he officially opened the season with the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night.
Reaves’ Honest Reaction To Life Without LeBron
For Austin Reaves, this is uncharted territory. He’s never played an NBA season without LeBron by his side, and the news hit him hard. “I don’t know if I’ve honestly processed it yet,” Reaves confessed. “Starting a season without him on the team is going to be different for me. That’s kind of all I’ve ever known.” It makes sense, right? James took Reaves under his wing when he was an undrafted guard, helping him develop into the player he is today. They built a special bond, one that clearly runs deep.
During Lakers practice, Reaves gave us a glimpse into his first reaction seeing James in a different uniform. He saw him in the preseason and almost couldn’t believe it. “I almost texted him and told him he looked crazy,” Reaves told the media, a raw and honest reaction. Even with the change, there’s no bad blood. “But that’s my guy and I wish him nothing but the best,” he added. Losing James was tough, no doubt, but Reaves seems to like what the Lakers have put together for this new chapter.
Reaves is definitely in for an adjustment period as the Lakers forge ahead without their long-time leader. The team has their own season opener coming up against the Warriors. It’s going to be fascinating to see how Reaves and the rest of the Lakers step up in this brand new era.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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