Austin Reaves leaks a message from JJ Redick at 7 a.m. that amplified his 26-point explosion against the Suns

From being constantly surrounded by trade rumors last season to rescuing the team from a 22-point deficit this season, Austin ReavesThe role seems to have changed. The audience in the Crypto.com Arena was able to experience a more combative side of the 26-year-old on Friday evening, who seemed to be up to the Lakers' offensive tasks. Reaves not only surprised the Suns with his 26 points, but also gave his teammates eight breathtaking opportunities to hit some free throws. Want to know what motivated the Arkansas native to become a powerhouse? He revealed the answer in an interview after the game.

After the 123-116 win, Reaves told Mike Trudell that his inspiration came from a morning text message he received from Lakers head coach JJ Redick. “When JJ texted me at around 7am this morning, I was still asleep. Apparently he wasn't, he told me he could imagine me having a big night tonight. So waking up to a text message like that boosts your confidence.” The shooting guard explained.

That's the kind of boost Reaves needed to elevate his performance. Instead of focusing on the lackluster shooting skills he showed in the previous game, Reaves focused on his performance against the Suns. Redick not only helped the 6-foot-2 guard, but also the team with his encouraging words during halftime.

“My coach said at half-time we had a bad Q1 and couldn’t afford another one. You know, that was basically the message. Go out there and play harder.” Reaves added. And the message was well received by the team.

While the Suns had a 9-point lead in the first half, the Lakers took control in the latter, scoring 35 points or more in the final two quarters. The final results impressed the HC, admitting that even he had not expected the impact Reaves would have.

“I didn't know he was that good” – Austin Reaves' performance leaves JJ Redick in disbelief

Austin Reaves had 37 minutes to showcase his talent and he lived up to the coach's expectations. In fact, he went above and beyond, as JJ Redick admitted in the postgame press conference. “Every day he gets better and shows more. I knew he was good. I didn't know he was that good. He’s a fantastic basketball player.” said the new HC.

Against the Timberwolves, none of Reaves' 3-pointers hit the target, but last night his off-court efforts showed as he successfully converted 5 of 7 shots from deep. His rebounds dropped to 4, but he made up for it with 3 steals and a block.

His overall performance was worthy of the praise Redick gave him, and in the coming games, Reaves will be expected to produce similar results and step up for the Lakers just as the franchise's general manager has envisioned every season.