austin Reaves‘ Efficiency stats Back Up 51-point Performance, Suggest Continued Ascent
Los Angeles, CA – October 27, 2025 – Austin Reaves’ recent 51-point outburst against the Sacramento Kings wasn’t a statistical anomaly, but rather a presentation of consistent efficiency even with increased volume, according to a deeper look at his career numbers. The Los Angeles Lakers guard is proving his scoring prowess isn’t reliant on a limited role, and could be poised for further offensive growth.
While Reaves’ scoring total grabbed headlines, scrutiny immediately turned to whether such a performance was sustainable given his career shooting percentages. However, analysis reveals Reaves maintains remarkable efficiency even when taking on a larger scoring load.
Throughout his career, Reaves has attempted at least 13 field goals in 90 games. In 76 of those contests, his effective field goal percentage (eFG%) exceeded .400 – meaning he was a highly efficient shooter even with increased opportunities. He’s only been subpar as a high-volume shooter in 14 career games.
Comparatively, Luka Dončić posted an eFG% under .400 in nine of 49 games last year where he attempted at least 13 field goals. Anthony Edwards dipped below the .400 mark in 14 of 73 such games. These figures demonstrate Reaves’ efficiency is comparable to that of established NBA scoring stars.
Reaves’ role with the Lakers has steadily expanded each season, with corresponding increases in both minutes played and point totals. This season, he’s benefiting from the NBA’s new “hot-stove” contact rule, which penalizes defenders for hitting a shooter’s arm after the release of the ball. Through three games, Reaves is averaging 12.3 free throw attempts per game, more than double his previous career-high of 5.0. While his 22 free throw attempts in the 51-point game are unlikely to be repeated regularly, the rule change presents a meaningful scoring prospect.
At 27 years old, Reaves is entering his prime. His established ability to score 30+ points in a game (14 times in his career) combined with his increasing role and the new rules suggest further high-scoring performances are within reach.
