Austin Reaves has bulked up this summer

“Reaves has vowed not to give his next coach any reason to doubt his ability to handle the physical grind of an 82-plus-game season,” wrote Jovan Buha. “Last season, teams would target Reaves defensively, attempting to exploit his thin frame. He held his own in many matchups – his on-ball defense was among his best skills as a rookie – but he was exposed at times, against more athletic wings.

“Reaves doesn’t have a specific weight goal to hit, but he’s bulked up from his preseason listed weight of 197 lbs. to 209 lbs. now.

“‘It’s my big focus,’ Reaves said. ‘I go in there with a good attitude every day, and whatever they tell me to do, I do. Just putting my body in the best position so the rookie wall or whatever, it doesn’t hit you like that. And you can more push through it because you’re in better shape and better conditioning.’

“Reaves hopes to use those extra pounds to improve at defending wings and absorbing contact on the offensive end. He’s eating healthier, seeking out a dietician and chef. He’s also become more flexible, recently taking up yoga.”