Austin Reaves: The Undrafted Gem Of The 2021 NBA Draft

Let's dive into the story of Austin Reaves, a player who went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft but has since become a significant contributor to the Los Angeles Lakers. We'll explore the factors that led to him being undrafted, his college career, his strengths and weaknesses, and how he ultimately found his place in the NBA. Austin's journey is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. It's a story that resonates with many aspiring players who dream of making it to the big leagues, regardless of their draft status.

Why Austin Reaves Went Undrafted

So, why did a player with Austin Reaves' talent go undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft? Several factors likely contributed to this outcome. First off, the draft is always a bit of a gamble for NBA teams. They're trying to project how a player's skills will translate to the professional level, and sometimes, players slip through the cracks. In Reaves' case, while he had a solid college career, he wasn't necessarily seen as a player with superstar potential. He wasn't the flashiest scorer or the most athletic player, which might have made some teams hesitant to use a valuable draft pick on him.

Another factor could have been his age. Reaves was 23 years old at the time of the draft, which is older than many of the other prospects. Teams often prefer younger players who they believe have more room to develop. The thinking is that a younger player has a higher ceiling, even if their current skills aren't as polished as an older player. Reaves, being a bit older, might have been perceived as closer to his peak, limiting his appeal to some teams. Furthermore, pre-draft workouts and interviews play a significant role in shaping teams' perceptions of players. It's possible that Reaves didn't perform as well in these settings as he could have, or that his personality didn't quite mesh with certain teams. These interactions can significantly influence a team's decision-making process, and sometimes, a player's performance in these areas can overshadow their on-court abilities.

Lastly, the sheer number of players available in the draft can also contribute to talented individuals being overlooked. There are only 60 draft slots, and hundreds of players vying for those spots. Some players simply get lost in the shuffle. The draft is not an exact science and many talented players go undrafted every year, but through hard work and determination, they find ways to make it to the league.

Austin Reaves' College Career

Before becoming a Laker, Austin Reaves carved out a notable college career, starting at Wichita State before transferring to Oklahoma. At Wichita State, he showed promise as a scorer and playmaker, but it was at Oklahoma where he truly blossomed. During his time with the Sooners, Reaves significantly improved his game, becoming a more consistent scorer, a better ball-handler, and a more reliable defender. He developed into a true all-around player, capable of impacting the game in multiple ways.

In his final season at Oklahoma, Reaves averaged an impressive 18.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. These numbers demonstrated his ability to contribute across the board, making him a valuable asset to his team. He wasn't just a scorer; he was also a facilitator and a key cog in the Sooners' offense. His playmaking abilities were particularly noteworthy, as he consistently made smart decisions with the ball and created scoring opportunities for his teammates. His leadership on the court was also evident, as he often took charge in crucial moments and helped guide his team to victory. Beyond the stats, Reaves displayed a high basketball IQ and a strong understanding of the game. He knew how to read defenses, anticipate plays, and make the right decisions in pressure situations. This basketball IQ, combined with his improving skills, made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams, even if he wasn't considered a top-tier talent.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Alright, let's break down Austin Reaves' game. On the strengths side, his versatility is a major asset. He can handle the ball, shoot, and pass effectively, making him a valuable offensive weapon. He’s got a knack for making smart plays and rarely forces things, which is something coaches love. Plus, he’s shown he can score in various ways, whether it's driving to the basket, hitting a mid-range jumper, or knocking down a three-pointer.

However, like any player, Austin Reaves has areas where he can improve. One of his main weaknesses is his athleticism. He's not the quickest or most explosive player, which can sometimes make it difficult for him to defend quicker guards or finish strong at the rim. Improving his strength and agility could help him overcome these limitations. Another area for improvement is his consistency as a shooter. While he's shown flashes of being a good shooter, he needs to become more reliable from beyond the arc to truly unlock his offensive potential. Additionally, working on his defensive technique and awareness could help him become a more impactful defender. By addressing these weaknesses and continuing to build on his strengths, Reaves has the potential to become an even more valuable player in the NBA.

Finding His Place with the Lakers

After going undrafted, Austin Reaves didn't give up on his NBA dream. He signed with the Los Angeles Lakers and quickly proved his worth. He wasn't handed anything; he earned his spot through sheer hard work and determination. In his first season, he showed flashes of potential, demonstrating his ability to score, pass, and make smart decisions on the court. He impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic and his willingness to learn, earning more playing time as the season progressed.

Reaves's breakout moment came during his second season with the Lakers, when he became a consistent contributor off the bench. He provided a spark on offense, knocking down crucial shots and creating opportunities for his teammates. His defense also improved, as he became more adept at guarding multiple positions and disrupting opposing offenses. His high basketball IQ and unselfish play endeared him to Lakers fans, who quickly embraced him as a fan favorite. The Lakers recognized his value and rewarded him with a bigger role, giving him more opportunities to showcase his skills.

One of the key factors in Reaves's success with the Lakers has been his fit within the team's system. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute in various ways makes him a valuable asset alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He complements their games well, providing them with a reliable scorer, playmaker, and defender. Reaves has also benefited from the mentorship of veteran players, who have helped him develop his game and navigate the challenges of the NBA. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of finding the right fit in the NBA.

Austin Reaves' Impact on the Lakers

Austin Reaves' impact on the Lakers extends beyond just stats and highlights. He brings a certain intangible quality to the team, a sense of grit and determination that resonates with his teammates and the fans. He's not afraid to take on challenges and consistently makes winning plays, whether it's diving for a loose ball, taking a charge, or knocking down a clutch shot. Reaves has become a vital role player for the Lakers, providing valuable contributions on both ends of the court. His ability to score, pass, and defend makes him a versatile asset, and his high basketball IQ allows him to make smart decisions in crucial moments.

Off the court, Reaves has also become a popular figure among Lakers fans. His humble demeanor and genuine appreciation for the opportunity to play in the NBA have endeared him to many. He's a relatable player who embodies the spirit of hard work and perseverance, inspiring fans with his journey from undrafted free agent to valuable contributor. Reaves' success story serves as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication and determination. His impact on the Lakers extends beyond the basketball court, as he has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring players everywhere. As he continues to develop and grow as a player, Reaves has the potential to become an even more integral part of the Lakers' future.

The Future for Austin Reaves

Looking ahead, the future looks bright for Austin Reaves. He's still young and has plenty of room to grow as a player. With continued hard work and dedication, he has the potential to become an even more valuable asset for the Lakers. One area where Reaves can focus on improving is his consistency as a shooter. If he can become a more reliable threat from beyond the arc, it would open up his game and make him even more difficult to defend. Additionally, working on his strength and agility could help him become a more impactful defender and allow him to finish stronger at the rim.

Reaves has already demonstrated his ability to adapt and improve, and there's no reason to believe he can't continue to develop his skills. He's a smart player with a high basketball IQ, and he's always willing to learn. With the right coaching and guidance, he has the potential to become a star in the NBA. Whether he remains with the Lakers long-term or explores other opportunities, Austin Reaves has a bright future ahead of him. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of seizing opportunities. He's an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere, and his journey is far from over.

Austin Reaves' journey from being undrafted to becoming a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He's a player who wasn't expected to make it to the NBA, but he defied the odds and proved his worth. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere, reminding them that anything is possible with the right mindset and work ethic.