TITLE: Austin Reaves Explains Why He Turned Down Pistons on Draft Night
SLUG: austin-reaves-pistons-draft-decision-lakers
CONTENT:
Austin Reaves said he deliberately chose to go undrafted in 2021 so he could sign with the Los Angeles Lakers instead of joining the Detroit Pistons, who were ready to select him with the 42nd overall pick.
Speaking on the “Mind the Game” podcast, the guard outlined a strategy he and his agents crafted before draft night.
The Plan to Land in Los Angeles
Open roster spot: Reaves knew the Lakers had a two-way contract available and only “four or five guys” under contract at the time, creating what he called a clear path to a standard NBA deal.
Analytical fit: His representatives relied on data that ranked the Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks and one other club as “Tier 1” destinations for his playing style.
Playing with LeBron James: Reaves believed his basketball IQ would mesh with James’ and help him carve out a role quickly.
“It sucked to not hear my name called, but putting ourselves in a good position was much more important,” Reaves said. Detroit’s front office contacted him at pick 42, but he and his agents stuck to their plan and declined.
Results Since the Draft
Reaves converted his two-way deal into a full contract and has developed into one of the Lakers’ primary scoring and playmaking options. Although Los Angeles recently fell to Detroit, Reaves praised the team’s effort in the close loss.
Source: LakersNation.com
