Amidst the superstar trades, the undrafted became the team's "clutch-time assassin". His impact was so significant that analysts dubbed it the "AR-15 effect," noting that the Lakers played markedly better with him on the floor.
In the 2022-23 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers orchestrated a historic turnaround that defied a after a dismal 2-10 start. While the core was led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, a critical part of their identity was the emergence of Austin Reaves , often affectionately (though controversially) nicknamed "AR-15" for his jersey number and sharpshooting. The Descent and the Deadline
: Following the deadline, the Lakers closed the season with an 18-9 record , winning two out of every three games. Lakers 22-23 l FX15
: Over a crucial 15-game stretch during this run, the Lakers boasted the number one defensive rating (107.5) in the NBA. Playoff Magic
: They dethroned the defending champion Golden State Warriors, also in six games, becoming the first 7th seed to reach the Western Conference Finals since 1987. Amidst the superstar trades, the undrafted became the
: They upset the 2-seeded Memphis Grizzlies in six games.
Though they were eventually swept by the Denver Nuggets in the Conference Finals, the 2022-23 season remains one of the most dramatic "tale of two seasons" in franchise history. Lakers 2022-2023 Season Recap While the core was led by LeBron James
The season began in darkness, with a winless 0-5 stretch that marked the worst start of LeBron James's career. By mid-season, the team was mired under .500, struggling with a roster that lacked defensive depth and reliable shooting.