Rob Pelinka reveals a big All-Star goal for Austin Reaves in the 2026-27 season

1 month ago 29

The 2026-27 season for the Los Angeles Lakers is a big shift from the previous campaigns. With LeBron James leaving for the Philadelphia 76ers, players have to step up to help the Lakers meet their objectives.

Of course, Luka Doncic is the undisputed superstar, but he also needs a running mate. Austin Reaves is that man, and it seems everyone within the Lakers organization has no problem admitting that Reaves will be under a microscope.

Rob Pelinka sets a massive goal for Austin Reaves' 2026-27 season

Reaves has become one of the most interesting players ahead of the 2026-27 season. Everyone knows that he has been a superb player for a few years now, but this 2026-27 campaign might be the season that lands him some accolades.

LeBron was fantastic for the Lakers, but now that he has left the team, this opens the pathway for more players to shine. At the forefront of that, the Lakers have Reaves, who has the potential to become an All-Star.

MORE: Collin Sexton has revealed that Austin Reaves will be a leader for the Lakers

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka certainly thinks so because he is setting goals for his player. Now, Reaves will be under a bit of pressure to perform, but he seems ready as well.

"One of the things we talked to Austin about is like, what does it mean once you're a max level player? What new responsibilities come your way with that leadership and showing others by example, like how to get better. So he's got a whole tool chest of new things that he's gotta improve on and work at to be a great leader," Pelinka said ahead of the 2026-27 season.

"That's something he and I and JJ talked about. He embraces that challenge, and I think not only will we see continued growth in his basketball game, but I think we'll see really strong growth in his leadership skills."

With a bigger contract, Reaves will be under pressure to live up to the deal. That just comes with the bigger deal he received, so moving forward, he will have those expectations to either meet or exceed.