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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

Witnessing one of the most interesting in the postseason series, rival franchises Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors clashed in an epic showdown. The stage was set for another chapter of LeBron James vs the Warriors, but this time, the Lakers’ underdog emerged as a key protagonist.

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Stepping up to the challenge, he took on the impossible task of guarding Stephen Curry and talked about the exhausting journey.?However, his tenacity and determination left a tremendous impact on the series.

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Challenge accepted, says the 25 YO guard

Although LeBron James played a major role in the historic match between Lakers and the Warriors, Austin Reaves had the hardest task.

Assigned with the responsibility of containing one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, Stephen Curry, Austin Reaves found himself in a relentless battle on the court. Reaves confessed that guarding Curry – “It’s honestly hell,” revealing the intensity of the challenge.

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USA Today via Reuters

Throughout Games 1 and 2, he tirelessly chased Curry and his backcourt partner, Klay Thompson, around the court, all while trying to find his offensive rhythm. As the series progressed, the fatigue of guarding Curry became increasingly evident for him. Reaves admitted that he struggled to maintain his offensive prowess during the early games, feeling the weight of his defensive responsibilities.

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“I couldn’t make a shot… I’m like, I ain’t got no legs,” he explained, showing the physically demanding and mentally exhausting nature of defending Curry.

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Earlier, there was an incident with an NBA player where he just practiced with Curry for 5 minutes and got so exhausted that he was forced to throw up. But Reaves’ impressive defensive skills, as well as physical capabilities, kept Curry’s scoresheet in check.

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The underdog prevails at his task

Throughout the series, the Lakers held Curry to an average of 26.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists, on 43.9% shooting. Considering Curry’s history, these numbers were proof of Reaves’ unwavering determination and commitment to his defensive duties. While he did not make the headlines, Reaves’s contributions were a major source of the Lakers’ win. His ability to grow during the playoffs earned him the respect of teammates, opponents and fans of the sport.

But the young underdog’s relentless excellence in defense and timely offensive not only contributed to a crucial role in guiding the Lakers to a hard-fought victory – Austin Reaves’ journey in the postseason reminds us that in basketball, it is often the underdog who makes a significant impact.

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Watch This Story: Refusing to Battle With Austin Reaves and More, Spurs? Victor Wembanyama Sets His Priorities Straight: ?Would Not Be Realistic?

Do you think Austin Reaves is going to have a bigger impact this season? Share your views in the comments below!

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Written by

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Dhruv Shastry

724 Articles

Dhruv Shastry, an NBA Writer at EssentiallySports, brings a wealth of hooping experience to his reporting. Despite contending with an ankle injury that curtailed his on-court endeavors, Dhruv remains at the forefront of his game, displaying an unparalleled understanding of basketball in every aspect as he draws inspiration from the legendary Kobe Bryant. Serving as a contributor to ES, Dhruv's journalistic focus extends to the lifestyle segment of basketball. His reporting involves analyzing sporting personalities, delving into their brand endorsements, tracking trades, and providing insights into their personal lives. With a breakthrough approach, he is not just a writer but a tactician in dissecting the intricate facets of the basketball world. Beyond the adrenaline of the game, Dhruv delves into writing, composing, and engineering music for global audiences.

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Aayush Kapoor

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