The Los Angeles Lakers announced their presence in the 2023 NBA playoffs by beating the Memphis Grizzlies at the FedEx Forum in Game 1 of the first round. A much-anticipated matchup between the two teams did not disappoint as it came down to the last minutes of the fourth quarter.
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Rui Hachimura came out as the star performer, leading all scorers with 29 points off the bench while shooting at an incredible 78.6 % from the field. In a game featuring multiple superstars, it was the ‘others’ who stepped up for the LA team.
Another mentionable performer was Austin Reaves, who had played incredibly well for the team coming into the playoffs. Reaves was promoted to the starting five and had another solid outing in his first playoff game. His performance left Skip Bayless praising him on Twitter.
Skip Bayless says Austin Reaves got guts
Reacting to the game, the co-host of ‘Undisputed with Skip and Shannon’ – Skip Bayless, had some encouraging words for the young Reaves. Usually known for his harsh criticism, Skip gave Austin his flowers and tweeted:
“Austin Reaves is yelling, “I’m him! I’m him!” … in a playoff game featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Ja Morant and JJJ. Same Reaves, in the 1st quarter, made his first 3, turned to the Memphis crowd and did his “ice water in my veins” celebration. Kid’s got … guts.”
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) April 16, 2023
Reaves started the game hot, shooting 3-3 in the first quarter. He ended with 23 points on 8-13 shooting from the field and 3-5 from the 3-point line. The Lakers player emerged as the second-highest scorer for the team, which has superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
He has been a revelation for a team who has struggled to find its footing throughout the year. With Reaves up for a contract extension this off-season, the entire league will be keeping an eye out for his services.
Was Skip Bayless taking a dig at the LA superstars?
Skip’s opinions about LeBron James are well-documented over the years. Knowing his style of reporting, it is not a distinct possibility that he was taking a dig at LeBron and Davis. The superstars had an average game compared to the standards they set for themselves.
With his tweet, Bayless could be announcing to the world that it’s time for the King to step aside and the young blood to take over the mantle. Regardless of what he meant, it is clear that Austin Reaves has arrived at the big stage and has a bright future ahead of him.
