Lakers’ Pick-and-roll Offense Shows Promise as Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton Mesh Well in Preseason.The Los Angeles Lakers’ new offensive dynamic is already turning heads. Austin Reaves and newcomer Deandre Ayton are building a formidable pick-and-roll partnership. Their early preseason chemistry signals a positive shift for the team’s strategy. This development comes at a crucial time as the team prepares for the regular season.According to ESPN, the duo’s efficient play was on full display against the Golden State Warriors. Reaves scored an efficient 21 points, largely fueled by actions involving Ayton. This live-game work is essential for building their on-court understanding.
Reaves and Ayton Forge On-Court Connection
Reaves emphasized the importance of in-game repetitions for their growth. He stated that their actions are not pre-meditated but happen naturally within the game’s flow. The guard described the experience of playing alongside Ayton as fun and productive.Ayton, who signed a two-year deal in July, praised Reaves’ playing style. He called his new teammate “super crafty” and expressed admiration for his offensive freedom. The center explained he focuses on not interrupting Reaves’ creative, wiggling approach with the ball.

Redick Sees Crawford-Esque Qualities in Reaves
Coach JJ Redick also used the word “crafty” to describe Reaves’ game. He highlighted Reaves’ improved ability to draw fouls as a key development. Redick made a notable comparison to his former teammate, three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford.Reaves appreciated the comparison to the legendary scorer. He agreed that the similarity lies in their shared offensive creativity and instinctual play. The fifth-year guard joked that the compliment made him like his coach a little more.
Collective Effort Needed in James’ Absence
The team will need this new offensive weaponry with LeBron James sidelined. James is out with sciatica and will be re-evaluated in several weeks. Reaves cautioned that replacing James’ production requires a collective effort from the entire roster.Ayton is expected to be a central figure in this shared responsibility. The Lakers believe they can unlock more of his playmaking, both on and off the ball. His screening ability is already creating clear advantages for ball-handlers like Reaves.
The developing Lakers pick-and-roll game between Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton offers a compelling new offensive look. Its success could be vital for the team’s early-season performance without LeBron James. This partnership may define the Lakers’ offensive identity moving forward.
Thought you’d like to know
How has Austin Reaves performed in the preseason so far?
Reaves has looked sharp, scoring an efficient 21 points against the Golden State Warriors. His chemistry with new center Deandre Ayton has been a standout feature of the Lakers’ preseason games.
What did Coach JJ Redick say about Reaves’ game?
Redick described Reaves as “crafty” and compared his foul-drawing ability to former teammate Jamal Crawford. He praised Reaves’ continued development and natural offensive instincts.
Why is the Reaves-Ayton partnership so important now?
With LeBron James injured, the Lakers need new, reliable offensive options. The emerging pick-and-roll game between Reaves and Ayton provides a crucial secondary scoring threat for the team.
What has Ayton said about playing with Reaves?
Ayton called Reaves “super crafty” and said he enjoys the guard’s offensive freedom. He focuses on setting solid screens and not getting in the way of Reaves’ creative drives.
When will Luka Doncic likely make his preseason debut?
Doncic is expected to play soon, possibly against the Phoenix Suns. This will be the first look at how he meshes with Ayton in the Lakers’ system.
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