Charles Barkley expressed strong disapproval of a broadcast comparison between Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves and NBA legend Larry Bird. The Hall of Famer stated that the comparison was inappropriate and should not be repeated.
Barkley's remarks came after he saw a clip from the Detroit Pistons broadcast team that drew parallels between Reaves and Bird. "I was watching the Detroit Pistons against the Lakers the other night, and some idiot, or some fool, or jackass, thought it would be appropriate to compare Austin Reaves to Larry Bird," Barkley said on his "Inside the NBA" program. "I love Austin Reaves. Don’t compare him to Larry Bird ever. Under no damn circumstances."
Barkley elaborated on his stance, emphasizing that the only commonality between the two players is their race. "Yeah, they’re both white. That’s it. That’s the only thing they have in common. Nothing else," he stated.
Reaves had a standout performance in the Lakers' 121-116 victory over the Pistons on Sunday. Despite the Lakers playing without Luka Dončić, Reaves led the team with 43 points, shooting 51.9% from the field, 4-for-6 from three-point range, and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line. He also contributed five rebounds and four assists. This performance has contributed to Reaves' growing reputation as a key player for the Lakers, especially after signing a four-year, $185 million contract in the offseason.