The Los Angeles Lakers are a franchise that rarely escapes the NBA spotlight. Their players are often subject to lofty praise, but this time, the pendulum swung in the opposite direction. In a recent top 100 player rankings released by Action Network, Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell were snubbed despite their impactful roles in the Lakers’ 2023-24 season. The Lakers made it to the first round of the playoffs. It’s surprising to see both players omitted from a list of the NBA’s best.
NBA Business: Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell Deserve More Respect in NBA Rankings
Austin Reaves: A Player on the Rise
Reaves has been one of the Lakers’ most valuable assets, yet he didn’t crack the top 100. Coming off a career-best season in 2023-24, Reaves averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting a sufficient 36.7% from beyond the arc. Many expected him to make the leap to a borderline All-Star level in 2024. Although that didn’t materialize, Reaves still took a significant step forward, particularly in playmaking and initiating offense.
His versatility makes him invaluable. Reaves spaces the floor with his shooting. He also serves as a secondary ball handler—a role that will likely expand under new head coach JJ Redick. Reaves’ ability to orchestrate offense while also defending multiple positions adds tremendous value. This is especially true on a Lakers roster lacking depth outside of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Reaves is also seen as a player who will continue to improve. He has already established himself as a capable play initiator. With more opportunities likely coming his way, his role is set to grow even further in the 2024-25 season. His omission from the top 100 list not only undervalues his current contribution but also fails to acknowledge his potential for future development.
D’Angelo Russell: Undervalued by the Market
Russell has been a polarizing figure throughout his career, but his value to the Lakers cannot be understated. He averaged 18.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.0 three-pointers made per game on 41.4% shooting from beyond the arc during the 2023-24 season. This type of production places him among the NBA’s elite floor-spacers, yet he too was left off the top 100 list.
One could argue that Russell’s postseason struggles overshadowed his regular-season contributions. Dismissing him entirely seems unwarranted. His decision to opt into his $18.6 million player option for 2024-25 also speaks to the complexities of his market value. The Lakers, with their spacing needs, rely heavily on Russell’s shooting and playmaking. On the open market, his fit with other teams would be less clear. For example, Tyus Jones, another solid point guard, ended up signing a one-year veteran minimum contract with the Suns. This shows just how uncertain the market can be for mid-tier point guards.
For the Lakers, Russell’s value extends beyond traditional statistics. His ability to operate as a ball-dominant shooter alleviates some of the pressure off LeBron and Davis. Throughout his tenure with the team, Russell has shot a career-high 41.4% from three on 6.8 attempts per game. This kind of efficiency is crucial for a Lakers team that lacks reliable shooters outside of him and Reaves.
Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell Poised to Prove Critics Wrong
The Lakers didn’t make many changes this offseason, aside from drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. This lack of significant moves has led some to predict that they might struggle in the 2024-25 season. However, both Reaves and Russell will play pivotal roles in determining how far the team goes. Reaves is expected to take on an even more prominent role. Russell’s three-point shooting will be critical to keeping defenses honest.
Despite being overlooked in the rankings, both players bring valuable skills to a Lakers team that often depends too heavily on its superstars. Their ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be key to the Lakers’ success in the coming season.
The Last Word
Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell may not have made the top 100 list, but their impact on the Lakers is undeniable. Reaves has shown steady improvement and versatility, while Russell remains one of the league’s most efficient shooters. As they continue to be integral to the Lakers’ system, it’s only a matter of time before they receive the recognition they deserve.
Their omissions serve as a reminder that rankings, while useful, don’t always tell the full story. For the Lakers, these snubs could act as motivation, pushing Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell to prove their worth on the court. If they succeed, it will only strengthen the case that both players should have been ranked among the NBA’s best.
