Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves picked an unexpected name when asked which player deserves more recognition ahead of the NBA season.
The NBA’s official X account shared a video Wednesday in which several players were asked who they believe deserves their flowers.
Most respondents highlighted typically underappreciated or underrated figures, such as Jrue Holiday or DeMar DeRozan.
When asked for his choice, Reaves said, “I think Wemby. Everything that, you know, he’s gonna get, already has gotten, is well-deserved.”
Lakers fans quickly criticized Reaves for extending praise to Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, with many questioning why he would show such support to one of the team’s biggest Western Conference rivals just before the season begins.
“ik reaves did not js say wemby,” wrote @lukawrldd.
“reaves is actually a b****,” added @ADHDgoat.
“this dude reaves said wemby ,” said @VACCLNE.
Part of the frustration stems from the fact that Wembanyama’s future accomplishments will likely come at the Lakers’ expense.
Additionally, Wembanyama already receives considerable attention from the NBA and mainstream media, making him an unconventional choice for someone deemed deserving of extra recognition.
Reaves will have an opportunity to quiet critics when the Lakers and Spurs meet for the first time on Nov. 27.