Austin Reaves Discussion: Still Want To Trade HIM?

Yeah, he missed the threes, but he’s competing hard on both ends and has Significantly improved his defense.

 

I am shocked how little love AR is getting here for the work he is doing on the defensive end. Both games his ball denial and battling bigger guys on the block and in the paint has been exceptional. Game 1 he got into trouble with pump fakes and being in-between helping, trailing the play and the 3 point shooter (like most of our guys) which resulted in a lot of Minny wide open 3's. Game 2 he was much more disciplined and stayed with his man or the switch but still played a hell of a deny game. Especially, when he has been matched up with Julius. I'm guessing JJ will be showing him that film over and over and over again.

I also like that in game 2 he didn't sit back and wait to initiate some offense for himself. His 3 wasn't falling but he was getting to the paint and finishing at the rim on some tough shots. There are def things we need him to improve as we continue going forward BUT I think AR is showing up and is putting it all on the court. When he plays with fire and a chip on his shoulder we win imo. Game 3 is going to be big for him and our team.