LeBron James’ absence in the opening month is certainly a concern for the Los Angeles Lakers, but it also presents a big opportunity for Austin Reaves. Entering the final year of his contract, the former undrafted guard has made his goal clear, saying, “I feel like I could be an All-Star.” With LeBron sidelined and the Lakers needing someone to step up, this could be Reaves’ moment to show he’s more than a reliable role player and make a strong case for a contract extension. However, does the new format make it possible?

With the Olympics heading to LA, Adam Silver has introduced a World vs USA format for the NBA’s flagship game. According to Tim Bontemps, Reaves’ impact could be foreshadowed in the process, largely because of how straightforward the voting could be.

“With these new rules for the All-Star game, it’s going to kill a guy like Austin Reeves, honestly… like the LA Boost isn’t necessarily going to come into play when you’re just basically ranking the 16 best American players,” he said on Hoop Collective. On the international stage, Team USA has long stood as basketball’s ultimate powerhouse, and the Paris Olympics only reinforced that dominance. The roster was so stacked with talent that even perennial All-Star Jayson Tatum saw limited minutes.

Opportunity, however, plays a major role in shaping a player’s reputation. Consider LaMelo Ball, whose free-flowing style and leadership role with the Hornets allow him to shine statistically and earn recognition. Austin Reaves, on the other hand, doesn’t have that same freedom within the Lakers’ star-heavy system.

With the Los Angeles Lakers, Austin Reaves plays behind superstars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic, which naturally limits his time in the spotlight. Surrounded by so much talent, he often goes unnoticed, but that hasn’t stopped him from thriving. Last season, he posted career highs with 20.2 points and 5.8 assists per game, proving his steady growth. His preseason performances added to that momentum, revealing a more confident and assertive version of Reaves who looks ready to take another step forward.

So, Silver may not have jeopardized the chances of the rising talent to make the All-Star team.

Austin Reaves could still be an All-Star this season

Several factors could work in Austin Reaves’ favor. The NBA is facing significant injury concerns, with former All-Stars like Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton all at risk of missing substantial time. On top of that, the 65-game rule makes durability and availability even more critical in determining who earns recognition. So, Reaves’ ability to stay healthy could give him an edge as opportunities arise throughout the season.

Over the last two seasons, Austin Reaves has managed to play over 70 games each year. Furthermore, the new format mostly seems to favor international talent. Brian Windhorst revealed 17 American players got the nod last season. Hence, Austin Reaves has an even playing field to make a case. However, even if it doesn’t happen, the 27-year-old doesn’t mind.

Reaves’ isn’t going to force anything. “All of that is, in my opinion, relative. Thank God I play with Luka and LeBron. I don’t want to be in a situation where I’m just going out chucking, getting numbers. If that’s the map for me to be an All-Star, I don’t care about that,” he said about his ambitions.

Still, being in a big market and one of the top three scorers will aid Austin Reaves. The “LA Boost” could certainly be a real thing. But what matters to him is finding success with the Lakers. This is the team’s first full season with Luka Doncic, who feels comfortable playing beside Reaves. So ultimately, what matters is making this season count.

The Lakers are focused on contending for a championship, and Austin Reaves is willing to adapt his game to give the team the best chance to succeed. Their offseason moves were also carefully planned to maximize the impact of the Doncic-James pairing, which could very well be the only full season the two stars play together. Reaves’ willingness to fit into that system shows his commitment to the team’s goals and highlights his role in helping the Lakers make the most of this unique opportunity.

With eyes on competing, do you think Austin Reaves can have an All-Star-worthy season? Let us know your views in the comments below.