There was a lot to like for the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night as they beat the Utah Jazz, 101-95. Interestingly enough, LeBron James decided to focus on the only player off the bench who didn't score in double-figures.

Austin Reaves scored just four points in the Lakers win, but two of them came in a crucial moment in the game with the Lakers nursing a two-point lead.

The face that he's even in there during the waning moments of close games is a testament to the trust his teammates have in him. At the top of the list is LeBron James, who chose to single out Austin Reaves after a the game

“Obviously, we got a gem in Austin,” said the Lakers star after the game.

“Bringing him on board, I watched a lot of film on him when we were able to acquire him. I know the type of players I like to play with. I knew right away that he would make an immediate impact on our ball club obviously before himself and probably before coaches and a lot of teammates.”

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
lebron james lakers jarred vanderbilt

Michael Corvo ·

LeBron James (Lakers) as a guy voting

Rexwell Villas ·

NBA Legend Shaquille O'Neal looked back at his breif stint with LeBron James & the Cavaliers and wishes he'd arrived two years sooner.

Randall Barnes ·

Austin Reaves has factored into a number of Lakers win this early on in his career, including a game-winner in overtime against the Dallas Mavericks.

Los Angeles sorely misses Alex Caruso after he departed for Chicago. Austin Reaves may be filling that spot in for some fans, but he's making sure to forge his own path as well.