Austin Reaves is towards the end of his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers and has experienced some rookie hazing. However, he says most of the hazing has gone away, and that is due to a roster move the Lakers made.
Reaves said Saturday that veteran point guard Rajon Rondo used to haze him. But the hazing was very mild and just silly stuff, like going on errands for Rondo and picking up items like candles for him.
Austin Reaves says most of his rookie hazing came from Rajon Rondo and that there’s been a steep drop-off since Rondo left. Rondo would often make Reaves get things for him on the road. When asked for an example, Reaves said Rondo often made him get him candles.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) February 26, 2022
That sort of hazing is negligible, and it could be a lot worse.
Despite the hazing Reaves may have gotten from Rondo, the 36-year-old 4-time All-Star played a valuable role in Reaves’ development.
The undrafted rookie credited Rondo for acting as somewhat of a mentor to him. Prior to his trade to Cleveland, Rondo would often watch film with Reaves and quiz him, helping the youngster develop.
Maybe the mild hazing from Rondo was the veteran’s way of showing he cared and was taking interest in the rookie.
Reaves is averaging 6.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 21.6 minutes per game for the Lakers this season. Rondo was dealt to the Cavs in January.
Photo: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
