24-Year-Old Lakers Star Blatantly Disregards Instructions From Coaching Staff Who Only Advised Him for His Health

Published 07/18/2022, 10:00 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers are in a world of worry after one of the worst regular seasons. They were constantly making changes in their roster with no stability. Moreover, most of their moves came up short. However, while some players were disappointed, there were a few who stepped up. Austin Reaves is one who shined on the biggest stage. And he is letting nothing stop him from getting better.

When it came to the Lake Show, there was one name that stood out last season. Unsurprisingly, it was LeBron James. Even at 37, the King was putting up some of the best numbers of his career. However, he was desperate to have any help in the corner. And an undrafted rookie stepped up to the challenge.

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After an impressive rookie season with the Lakers, Reaves is in a fight for the starting spot. Likewise, the youngster is taking his off-season very seriously.

Reaves ignores instructions from the Lakers

Despite being undrafted, Reaves looked ready to be on an NBA floor. He is arguably a perfect fit playing defense with all his might and having a sweet shot. Entering the year, the Oklahoma guard had three goals: earn a spot on the Los Angeles Lakers’ 15-man roster, cement his place as a rotation player, and win a chip. He fulfilled two by getting significant minutes as a rookie. However, his biggest one was winning a championship. Now, with an entire off-season, Reaves wants to take the big leap.

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The sophomore guard is doing three workouts a day. He follows a schedule of lifting, working out with his teammates, and then going back for a night of shooting. With such a heavy workload, the Lakers asked Reaves to take a week off. However, he didn’t care. Reaves said: “F**k that. I’m gonna work.”

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The Lakers undoubtedly need this attitude, especially after their previous campaign. The franchise is reportedly stuck in a battle to sign Kyrie Irving. Moreover, LeBron James re-signing all depends on the direction the Lakers move in. Winning a championship is almost a necessity for LA, and Reaves seems to know the formula. Looking to improve his three-point shot, we may see a much more refined Austin Reaves next season. Having a two-way talent such as Reaves is essential in a championship run.

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WATCH THIS STORY: Lakers Legend Kobe Bryants Childhood Home: Where Did He Grow Up?

Entering the new deal with a solid resolve, do you think Reaves will play a big part next season? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Written by:

Anuj Talwalkar

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Anuj Talwalkar is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports. He is a student studying at NM College in Mumbai, aspiring to pursue sports management to follow his love for sports. Anuj started following the NBA last year, and he loves to combine his passion for writing with his understanding of basketball.
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Edited by:

Veer Badani