Are Expectations for Austin Reaves This Season Fair? Have the Lakers Set the Bar Too High?

Locked On Lakers - Daily Podcast On The Los Angeles Lakers

Thursday's episode was centered around Max Christie, and what he's expected to bring this season for the Lakers.

But it touched on Austin Reaves, as well, and it's that portion of the conversation that generated the most feedback in the comments and prompted discussion for today's show. Namely, are the expectations around Reaves, whether set by the hosts in this space or by the Lakers, fair? What are they, exactly? How much is set by media, and how much is put on Reaves by the contextual needs of the team (and the roster construction)?

Today, it's a deep dive into Reaves, how he performed last year and what needs to be different—and better—this year. That includes a lot of reason to think improvement could be on the way! Reaves, assuming he makes it through camp without any injuries, will be set up for success better this year than last, no question.

From there, it's a listener email about Christian Wood and expectations around him, as well. Earlier in the week, we discussed how Wood is the guy who will change the dynamic among the centers the most, once he comes back from his latest injury. When that will be, nobody is sure. Will he succeed? Nobody is sure. But relative to the other options, Wood has more upside. We explain.

Finally, when are the Lakers going to get the Bron/Bronny "moment" out of the way? How should they handle it?

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

SEGMENT 1: Are expectations for Austin Reaves unfair?

SEGMENT 2: How good does Reaves need to be?

SEGMENT 3: What about Wood? Plus, predictions on the Bron/Bronny moment.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Now through September 22nd, ALL FanDuel customers can bet FIVE DOLLARS and get a THREE WEEK free trial of NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube and YouTube TV. Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)