Austin Reaves gave former teammate Patrick Beverley a dose of his own medicine during the Lakers’ 121-110 win over the Bulls on Wednesday.
Reaves hit Beverley with the “too small” celebration after Pat Bev did the same thing to LeBron the last time these teams met.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Reaves said it wasn’t premeditated.
“He (Beverley) did it last time we played to Bron,” he said. “It wasn’t something I thought about doing all game, but I felt like right time, right situation. And like you said, me and Pat have a good relationship. I respect him. It’s just me competing.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Zd8NkZNkuU
LeBron, meanwhile, said he appreciated Reaves sticking up for him.
“AR always got my back… always,” James said. “Even though he loved Kobe back in the day more than me, I forgive him,” he added with a laugh.
LeBron James on what he thought about Austin Reaves doing the “too small” gesture to Patrick Beverley: “That AR always got my back. Always. Even though he loved Kobe back in the day more than me. I forgive him.” pic.twitter.com/pt0jAMTFO9
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) March 30, 2023
Reaves has been especially good for the Lakers lately, and his run of hot form during James’ absence resulted in questions being asked about whether LeBron’s return would stifle his productivity.
But the former Oklahoma Sooners standout was exceptional regardless in the rematch against Chicago, putting up 19 points and five assists on 7-8 field goal shooting.
Beverley, on the other hand, finished with 0 points on 0-5 shooting.
READ MORE: Patrick Beverley Addresses His ‘Too Small’ Celebration Against LeBron James
