?He?s Not Scoring a Lot?: After Inking His Loyalty to the Lakers, Austin Reaves Refrains From Recruiting 27YO NBA Star From Team USA

Austin Reaves was instrumental in leading Team USA into the quarterfinals at the FIBA World Cup 2023. The Los Angeles Lakers guard has showcased his malleability and determination by proving to be a game-changer for Team USA. The basketball sensation gained popularity after averaging multiple 20-point games during the Western Conference Finals. After delivering a memorable performance, at par with King James, LA Lakers offered him a 4-year max contract extension. Reaves, during his time playing for Team USA, has grown close to a few of his teammates. However, there is one NBA star that he does not want to join the Lakers.?

Austin Reaves gets candid about his bond with NBA star

The LA Lakers star opened up about his relationship with teammates during an interview with the LA Times. During the interview, Dan Woike asked him a question that fans were itching to know. He inquired if anyone had particularly grabbed his attention during his time with the team.?

To which, Reaves replied, ?The one that stands out would be Mikal?. The interviews then jokingly questioned him, ?You hated him right??

The 25-year-old, matching the interviewer?s energy, humorously added, ?I mean, I didn?t hate him. I didn?t know what to think about him back in the day. But it was just like his energy. He?s never in a bad mood. You know at all times, he?s going to do and have the right intentions towards the game. He?s not scoring a lot, but he?s doing all the other stuff. That?s been the one I?ve kind of meshed with the most, on and off the court.?

He then reminisced about a conversation with Net?s forward Mikal Bridges, which lifted the player in his esteem. He recalled, ?We were talking the other day, and he looked at me and said, ?Bro, I don?t care. As long as I can put a gold medal around my neck, I don?t care. I don?t care what happens. As long as we win, I don?t care.? That means a lot for me to hear.?

He discussed Bridges’ victory mentality and majesty on the court after his trade to the Brooklyn Nets. It is especially admirable to see Bridges average over 25 and adjust to a new environment so fast. With the shared goal to lift the Naismith Trophy, the duo?s commitment to winning the gold medal is on full display during the 2023 FIBA World Cup.?

Los Angeles Lakers add another star to their roster

Reaves played a vital role in helping the Lakers reach the 2023 Western Conference Finals. From being called ?fearless? by King James, the Arkansas native is particularly well-known for his ability to draw fouls. He was first signed on a two-way contract with the Lakers, but after witnessing his magnificence on the court, the Lakers decided to extend his contract. He inked a four-year, $56 million deal and will continue to bless the court alongside legendary players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

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With Team USA in the quarterfinals, the fans are eagerly awaiting to see the star duo Austin Reaves and Mikal Bridges shine on-court again. Adding another star player to their roster, the Los Angeles Lakers might look forward to winning the next championship title.

Watch this story: Hours After FIBA World Cup Heroics, ?Captain America? Austin Reaves Welcomes Newest Lakers Star With a Simple Gesture