NBA fans couldn’t help but bring up Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves after the league announced the finalists for the major awards on Sunday.
Amid the first round of the playoffs, the NBA revealed the top three names competing for each of the top individual awards this season, such as MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, Rookie of the Year, Sixth Man of the Year, Clutch Player of the Year and Coach of the Year.
While there was no surprise for the finalists for some of the awards—such as MVP where Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo have long been expected to compete—there are some selections and snubs that caught the attention of the NBA world.
In particular, several fans took issue with the Most Improved Player finalists, especially with Reaves not being selected. Cade Cunningham, Dyson Daniels and Ivica Zubac made it to the top three instead.
“Reaves not being here is just such a joke,” a commenter wrote. Another one said, “No AR15 #rigged.”
“Where is Austin???” a fan asked in shock.
“Reeves & Herro should’ve been here instead of Cade, who is a No. 1 pick,” a critic added.
“1st overall pick is nominated but undrafted player averaging 20 next to Luka and Bron is apparently unworthy smh,” a fifth poster stated, referencing Reaves who averaged 20.2 points per game in the 2024-25 regular season.
“Reaves robbed,” a disappointed follower remarked.
Austin Reaves, who went undrafted in 2021, increased his scoring after averaging 15.9 points last season. His numbers across the board also improved, as he put up career highs in rebounds (4.5), assists (5.8) and steals (1.1).
What makes it more impressive is that Reaves has established himself as a reliable third option for a Lakers squad featuring LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
With that said, it’s not surprising why fans felt Reaves was snubbed. He certainly had the credentials to be selected as a finalist for the award.
Unfortunately, there’s nothing fans can do now but accept the reality. Besides, at this point, Reaves is just focused on helping the Lakers bounce back after they lost Game 1 of their 2025 NBA playoffs opener.
