Erik Spoelstra Makes His Feelings Clear on Austin Reaves

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra has praised Austin Reaves’ development into one of the NBA’s most reliable offensive players, explaining why the Los Angeles Lakers guard has earned his respect.

Spoelstra previously coached Reaves with Team USA during the 2023 FIBA World Cup, working alongside Steve Kerr and Ty Lue.

Three years later, the Heat coach believes Reaves’ success comes down to much more than his ability to score.

“He’s a competitor,” Spoelstra said before Miami’s loss to the Lakers on Monday, according to Lakers Nation. “I think first and foremost, you have to point to that. He has high skill level offensively, but he competes on both sides of the floor. He’s a winning player. You hear that a lot about certain guys and I don’t know if there’s a specific definition to a winning player, but when you coach somebody, you can spot a winning player. Who is doing the intangibles? Who made tough plays? And you can’t ever relax with him, I know that.

“He had that quality with USA. I was really impressed with him. I really enjoyed the opportunity to be part of that staff to coach him. And I’m not surprised by the success that he’s had, and then he continues to get better, right? He’s got a great work ethic. Winning players usually get better.”

Reaves has come a long way since entering the NBA as an undrafted free agent, securing a $180 million contract with Los Angeles during the offseason.

Through eight games, the 28-year-old is averaging 23.6 points and 5.1 assists while shooting 53.9 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from three-point range.

He backed up Spoelstra’s praise on Monday, recording 27 points and five assists on 10-of-15 shooting to help the Lakers defeat Miami.

Reaves has also reunited with former Team USA teammate Walker Kessler, who joined Los Angeles during the offseason.

“Yeah, he’s been great. It’s fun to watch,” Reaves said after the victory, according to Lakers Nation. “Glad to have him on our team, and he’s gonna continue to get better every single game. But he’s been massive for us this whole year.”