How Austin Reaves REJECTED the Pistons to Force His Way to the Lakers

Austin Reaves controlling his draft destiny is exactly what smart players do. Turning down Detroit at 42 to get a better two-way spot with the Lakers? That's playing chess while everyone else plays checkers.⁣ ⁣ Most rookies just hope to get picked anywhere. Reaves had a game plan, tiered his preferred teams, and bet on himself. The result? He's now a legitimate All-Star candidate who steps up even more when Luka's off the floor.⁣ ⁣ This is why basketball IQ matters as much as athleticism. Reaves knew he just needed the right opportunity to showcase his skill set, and he made sure he got it with a franchise that could develop him properly.