Last summer, Austin Reaves went unselected in the 2021 NBA draft, only to luck out by getting signed by the Los Angeles Lakers, first to a two-way contract, then to a standard contract.
Some expected him to bounce back and forth between the Lakers and the G League, but he spent all of his time in the NBA this season.
At times, his youth and lack of a developed, refined game showed, but the 6-foot-5 guard has a nice instinctual feel for the game and a willingness to hustle.
This week, it was announced Reaves had received two votes for the NBA’s All-Rookie second team.
Some might believe he should’ve been voted onto that squad, but it’s still an amazing accomplishment for an undrafted player.
It’s rare for an undrafted player to stick on an NBA roster, let alone to get any votes for an All-Rookie team.
Reaves has serious potential as a solid contributor for years to come, and he could be part of a Lakers revival next season.
