Barkley Rejects Comparisons Between Reaves and Bird

Charles Barkley said he does not want Austin Reaves compared with Larry Bird after seeing a clip from the Detroit Pistons’ broadcast team likening the Lakers guard to the former NBA star. Barkley spoke about the comparison on November 11, saying the two players’ race was the only similarity he saw. He also made clear that his criticism was not directed at Reaves, whom he said he likes.

The comments followed the Lakers’ 121-116 win over Detroit on November 8. Reaves took on a larger scoring role with Luka Doncic unavailable and finished with 43 points. He made four of six three-point attempts and all 11 of his free throws, while shooting 51.9% from the field.

Reaves also recorded five rebounds and four assists. The performance came after he agreed to a four-year, $185 million deal with the Lakers during the offseason. Barkley reiterated that he respects Reaves but urged the broadcast team not to make the Bird comparison again.