"Is that Caitlin Clark's brother?", "Just me or he looks more muscular": Fans weigh in on Lakers star Austin Reaves' latest pictures

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is putting in serious work this offseason in preparation for the 2024-25 NBA season. In a photo dump shared by the Lakers on social media on Monday, the 26-year-old star was seen honing his skills and working on his craft at the team’s training facility, sporting the Lakers' practice gear.

Fans shared candid reactions to the three photos of Reaves from the training facility. One fan humorously posed a misinformed question and brought WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark into the conversation after seeing the Lakers star with a beard.

"Is that, @CaitlinClark22‘s brother?"

One of the fans highlighted that Reaves needs to work on his defense to help the Lakers become a better team.

"he just needs to improve his defense and the Lakers will be unstoppable this season."

Another X user boldly opined that the Lakers guard is the most underrated player in the league.

"Most underrated player of the NBA… he could avg 25+ on a team like the hornets."

One of the fans wondered if Reaves has been hitting the weight room this offseason.

"Just me or he looks more muscular ??"

One fan claimed that Reaves is the reason the "Purple and Gold" haven't made any major offseason signings yet.

"The reason why Lakers didn't sign another all star player, coz AR is HIM."

A Lakers fan predicted that Reaves will make a significant leap in the upcoming season and emerge as the team's second-best option.

"He will be our second option this season."

JJ Redick has big plans for Austin Reaves

Newly hired Lakers head coach JJ Redick has big plans for Austin Reaves. Redick’s confidence in the shooting guard is the key reason the Lakers have resisted trade proposals that involve Reaves as part of the package. (Start at 28:12)

"I just know JJ has big plans for Austin Reaves. Not only that, when there were discussions with the Lakers this summer and teams had discussions with them and Austin Reaves came up it was a hard 'no," NBA insider Brian Windhorst said.

Upon becoming the Lakers coach, Redick praised Austin Reaves, highlighting the young star's competitive spirit and toughness.

"He's excellent. I cannot wait to coach Austin. One of the reasons I can't wait to coach him is because of his competitive spirit. He has a real mental toughness and competitive approach every single night," Redick said.

Reaves, who has played three seasons in the NBA, enjoyed his best campaign last year. The 26-year-old played all 82 games and averaged career-highs in points, assists and rebounds.

The Lakers guard averaged 15.9 points on 48.6% shooting from the field, including 36.7% from the three-point range. Reaves also averaged 4.3 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game.