Lakers 2025-26 most improved player has jumped more than seven points per game

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The Los Angeles Lakers have rediscovered their rhythm after an opening-night loss to the Golden State Warriors.

Now 13–4 and sitting second in the Western Conference, the team has been fuelled by Luka Dončić’s MVP-level play, LeBron James’ return from injury and a deeper, more confident rotation. But no player has surprised more this season than Austin Reaves, whose breakout has become one of the biggest storylines in the NBA.

Reaves elevated his game last year, but many assumed he had already reached his developmental peak. Instead, he has taken an enormous leap — one that has been central to the Lakers’ best start since 2010–11.

Austin Reaves’ production has exploded across the board

Reaves has increased his scoring average by 7.7 points per game, now putting up 27.9 PPG while adding 1.2 more assists and 1.2 more rebounds compared to last season. He’s also logging more minutes and shooting more efficiently from the field, even as his three-point percentage dips. His upward trajectory suggests he is headed for a huge payday, with his performance placing him among the league’s most impactful guards.

Austin Reaves per game comparison

• PPG: 20.2 → 27.9 (+7.7)
• APG: 5.8 → 7.0 (+1.2)
• RPG: 4.5 → 5.7 (+1.2)
• MPG: 34.9 → 36.3 (+1.4)
• FG%: 46.0% → 49.8% (+3.8%)
• 3P%: 37.7% → 31.8% (–5.9%)
• FT%: 87.7% → 87.9% (+0.2%)

What Reaves’ next contract could look like

With the 2026 offseason looming, both Reaves and LeBron James can enter free agency — but the Lakers’ priority appears clear. Reaves is playing the best basketball of his career, and retaining him will require a substantial financial commitment. ESPN’s Bobby Marks reports that Reaves is likely to decline his player option and could command a deal worth up to five years and $241 million, while the Lakers would still retain around $50 million in cap space.

Reaves has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain in Los Angeles, but he also wants a contract that matches his rising market value. If he maintains his current level of play, the Lakers will have little choice but to pay him like the franchise cornerstone he is becoming.