The Los Angeles Lakers have been closely monitoring the NBA offseason landscape as they look to reinforce their roster following a disappointing postseason exit. However, recent developments involving Austin Reaves and his contract situation have sparked uncertainty about the long-term direction of the franchise.
The Lakers reportedly offered Reaves a four-year, $89.2 million extension—an offer he declined. According to The Athletic, the undrafted guard, who entered the league in 2021, is about to begin the third year of a four-year, $54 million deal. That contract includes a player option worth $14.8 million for the 2026–27 season, which Reaves is widely expected to decline in pursuit of a more lucrative agreement.
By turning down the extension, Reaves sets himself up to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, assuming he opts out. This move would allow him to explore offers from around the league, potentially for higher figures. While the Lakers retain his Bird rights and could exceed the cap to match any offer, they now face the risk of losing a valuable asset without compensation.
Following the team’s first-round playoff exit, several analysts identified Reaves as a key trade chip for the Lakers, particularly after an underwhelming postseason showing. Yet General Manager Rob Pelinka was quick to shut down that notion during his exit interview, affirming that the franchise had no intention of moving the guard.
LeBron James and Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Reaves posts career-best numbers
Despite playoff struggles, Reaves delivered his best season to date in 2024–25. He averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 2.7 made 3-pointers per game while shooting an impressive 55% effective field goal percentage. As a complementary playmaker, he has emerged as one of the league’s most versatile assets—especially alongside stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Defensively, he still has limitations due to his size, but his effort level remains unquestioned.
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Reaves reiterates commitment to Los Angeles
During a recent appearance at his Reaves Brothers Basketball Camp, the 26-year-old made it clear that he wants to remain a Laker for the long haul. His goal, he said, is not to leave, but to ensure he’s compensated appropriately.
“I want to be in L.A.,” Reaves told reporters at the camp. “If they want to trade me, then we’ll start something new somewhere else. But like I said, I want to be in L.A. I want to play my whole career in L.A. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers are the best organization in basketball. I don’t pay attention to the noise. I keep my head down, work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.”
As the Lakers head into what could be a defining offseason, Reaves’ future looms as a major storyline—and a potential turning point for the NBA franchise’s long-term vision.
