Austin Reaves: Drafted or Draft Dodger? The Untold Story (Probably Not Untold)
The internet, oh glorious internet, can be a fickle beast. You type in a perfectly reasonable question, like "what year did Austin Reaves get drafted?" and...crickets. Instead of the answer you crave, you're bombarded with articles about his killer three-pointer against the Mavericks or his chances of being traded (spoiler alert, Lakers Nation wants him to stay put). Fear not, my fellow basketball sleuths, for I have unearthed the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth (well, at least the publicly available truth).
What Year Did Austin Reaves Get Drafted |
The Plot Thickens, Like Austin Reaves' Hair (Dude Has Flow)
Here's the thing: Austin Reaves wasn't actually drafted. Gasp! I know, right? Minds blown. Apparently, the Detroit Pistons had their eye on him in the 2021 draft, but plot twist - Reaves politely declined their offer.
Why You Say No to the NBA Draft (Besides Alien Abduction)
Now, before you imagine Reaves ditching the NBA for a life of competitive cheese rolling (it's a thing, look it up), there was a method to his madness. The Pistons, bless their hearts, were planning on a two-way contract, which basically means you're playing pro ball but chilling in the minors sometimes. Reaves, the ambitious fellow he is, wanted a guaranteed spot on the big stage.
Enter the Los Angeles Lakers. They saw potential in Reaves, LeBron whispered sweet nothings about championship rings (probably), and BAM! Reaves signed a two-way contract with the Lakers, eventually working his way up to a standard NBA contract. The rest, as they say, is history (or at least the beginning of a very promising career).
QuickTip: Revisit this post tomorrow — it’ll feel new.
So, When Did He Actually Join the Lakers?
2021. That's the year folks. August 3rd, to be precise. And let me tell you, Lakers Nation is mighty glad he did.
FAQ: Austin Reaves Edition (Because You're Curious and I Like Answering Things)
How to be as smooth as Austin Reaves?
Practice your three-pointer, cultivate a killer fadeaway, and maybe invest in some good hair products.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
How to get drafted by the NBA?
Be really, really good at basketball. Like, superhumanly good.
How to convince an NBA team to take a chance on you (undrafted like Reaves)?
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Ball out in college, summer leagues, anywhere you can showcase your skills. Be coachable, have a positive attitude, and maybe wear lucky socks.
How to become BFFs with LeBron James?
This one's a mystery even for the best of us. But hey, if you figure it out, let me know.
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
How to tell if you're watching Austin Reaves or his long-lost twin?
There isn't one. He's that good, he can be in two places at once. (Okay, not really, but his talent is unreal).