Reaves: team feels different after LeBron, bond with Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers are officially turning the page on the LeBron James era, with guard Austin Reaves acknowledging the profound change while highlighting his close bond with new cornerstone Luka Doncic. Reaves, speaking publicly for the first time since signing a historic four-year, $180 million contract extension last month, described James's departure as a significant shift for the franchise.

"Starting the season without him being on the team is going to be different for me," Reaves said while attending NBA Summer League activities in Las Vegas. "He's kind of all I've ever known." James had spent eight seasons with the Lakers before his exit this offseason.

The organization's future now clearly revolves around the backcourt partnership of Reaves and Doncic. Reaves emphasized that their connection extends far beyond the court, calling the Slovenian star "one of my best friends on this planet." He revealed the two communicate almost daily, even sharing lighthearted golf tips, as Reaves is considered one of the league's top golfers. "He sends me videos of his golf swing and asks what he can do to get better, and I tell him I'm not a coach," Reaves said.