Lakers News: Rookie May Be Surprise Package, Creates Noise With Somewhat Familiar Moniker

The Los Angeles Lakers are stacked, and it will take much for the supporting cast to carve their niche.

In the past months, big names like LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook have been the highlight topics for the franchise.

The name of Austin Reaves has hardly gained traction. That was until he was signed to a multi-year contract after originally being given a two-way deal.

The move is a bit peculiar, and head coach Frank Vogel may have seen something in the 23-year-old that most have overlooked.

One hint could be his performance with the Oklahoma Sooners. Last season in college, he averaged 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.

However, most know that the level of play is entirely different in the NBA. He needs to adjust and the task is doubly harder on a team filled with superstars and tested veterans.

While he has yet to play an official NBA game, it appears the hype is starting for Reaves. He has gotten a nickname, part of which should strike a tune to die-hard Lakers fans–“Hillbilly Kobe.”

“I’m from Arkansas in the middle of nowhere and I grew up on a farm, so it kind of fits,” Reaves explained to Dave McMenamin of ESPN.

Of course, the nickname may in no way hint that Reaves is someone who could pick up from what the legendary Kobe Bryant did with the Lakers.

But his nickname has aroused the curiosity of many and is something that could add pressure on him once Vogel calls on him to play.

For now, the best to expect that Reaves will likely pick up where Alex Caruso left off.

After climbing up the ranks, the 27-year-old is a beloved figure in Hollywood before he moved to the Chicago Bulls.

Caruso had his best moments with the Lakers, probably a barometer that Reaves may want to check out as he proves his place in the NBA.