Patrick Beverley is no stranger to controversy or controversial takes. He’s been known to say things to get under people’s skin on the court and off the court. Now, with his own podcast, he certainly has his fair share of takes these days.
Beverley, on a recent episode of his podcast, delivered another set of interesting takes. The first take was based on the Los Angeles Lakers and how they look after the trade deadline.
Patrick Beverley Says New-Look LA Lakers Can Go on a Run
Beverley seems to be a fan of how the Lakers navigated the trade deadline and feels that they are poised to go on a run with the addition of Luka Dončić. Beverley stated that Dončić’s arrival could work wonders for center Jaxson Hayes:
Excited to see the new look Lakers go on a run after All Star break! pic.twitter.com/NttA8HCs2n
— Pat Bev Pod (@PatBevPod) February 18, 2025
“You talk about a shot in the arm. Jaxson Hayes got a f***ing shot in the arm. Not only was he on his way out, he is reaping the benefits of the trade not going through, not getting the other center.”
“So, now he’s forced to be the starting center, he’s a lob threat anyway…That’s a perfect player for Luka Dončić. Literally, just toss it up and rim protect, I like what the Lakers have.”
While many feel that the Lakers need another big man, Beverley seems confident that Hayes will be their guy now with Dončić on the court.
Beverley Crowns Austin Reaves Best Third Option in the League
Beverley continued his thoughts on the Lakers by making his loudest declaration that Austin Reaves is the best third option in the NBA right now, while also giving Rui Hachimura credit as the best fourth option in the league:
“You talk about a third option. You look around the NBA. He might be the best third option in the NBA in Austin Reaves. You talk about your fourth option in Rui Hachimura.”
Beverley would also list his top-five No. 3 options in the league overall, citing Reaves as the top pick again, but also listing Kyle Kuzma and Norman Powell as his second and third picks.
The best 3rd options in the NBA! Presented by @NewAmsterdam pic.twitter.com/lot346YFQ0
— Pat Bev Pod (@PatBevPod) February 18, 2025
While Beverley’s spirited argument for No. 3 options is appreciated, picking Reaves over arguable All-Star snub Powell is the way to go.
You could also argue that the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Boston Celtics, and the Oklahoma City Thunder all have better third (and fourth options) than the Lakers as well.
While Beverley seems to like what the Lakers have now — he may have gotten a little ahead of himself with this take.
