Austin Reaves: Drafted or Draft Dodger? The Truth Will Shock You (Well, Maybe Not That Much)
Ah, Austin Reaves. The name on every Laker fan's lips (well, maybe after LeBron, AD, and that delicious new concession stand churro). But there's a burning question that's been keeping NBA conspiracy theorists up at night: what year was Austin Reaves drafted?
Hold on to your basketball hats, folks, because the answer is... drumroll please never!
That's right, Austin Reaves, the man, the myth, the legend, bypassed the whole draft hoopla altogether. Did he have some next-level chess match planned? Did LeBron whisper sweet nothings about joining the Lakers (and churros) in his ear? We may never know (although, if LeBron was involved, churros definitely played a part).
The Plot Thickens: Why No Draft for Reaves?
The story goes something like this: The Detroit Pistons, bless their hearts, were ready to snag Reaves with the 42nd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. But here's where things get interesting. Reaves, with the cunning of a fox (or maybe just a good agent), politely declined the offer. Apparently, the Pistons were planning on a two-way contract situation, and Reaves, the smooth operator he is, had his sights set on a guaranteed roster spot.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
So, How Did Reaves End Up on the Lakers?
This, my friends, is where things get truly legendary. Reaves, the ultimate free agent (well, undrafted free agent), signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in August 2021. He impressed the heck out of everyone (and probably snagged a few of those aforementioned churros), because by September, he was chilling with a standard NBA contract. The rest, as they say, is history (and a bunch of three-pointers).
The Reaves Redemption: From Undrafted to National Team Star
Reaves' story is a testament to hard work, a good agent (probably), and maybe a touch of LeBron's magic. He not only carved out a spot on the Lakers but also became only the third undrafted player to be selected for the 2023 U.S. national team. Take that, draft day doubters!
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
## Frequently Asked Reaves Questions (FAQ):
How to be an undrafted NBA superstar like Austin Reaves?
While there's no guaranteed path, honing your skills, having a killer crossover, and maybe befriending LeBron James wouldn't hurt.
QuickTip: A careful read saves time later.
What Year Was Austin Reaves Drafted |
How to get two-way contract in the NBA?
Impress teams in summer leagues and training camps. Remember, scouts are always watching (and possibly snacking on churros).
How many three-pointers did Austin Reaves make in his rookie season?
Enough to make Laker fans very happy (but we don't have the exact number on hand. Research is hard after a churro binge).
QuickTip: Don’t just scroll — process what you see.
How to spell Austin Reaves' last name?
It's Reaves, with an "eaves," not "reeves" like those pesky pirates trying to steal your basketball dreams.
How to celebrate an amazing NBA career like Austin Reaves?
With churros, duh!