The Los Angeles Lakers are beginning to take shape as a more complete and competitive team ahead of the upcoming NBA season. With a series of strategic offseason additions, the franchise appears determined to re-establish itself as a title contender. However, not everyone within the roster seems equally satisfied—particularly guard Austin Reaves.
Amid the flurry of roster changes and speculation, NBA insider Jake Weinbach recently reignited trade rumors involving Reaves. According to Weinbach, the 26-year-old’s status is something teams across the league are monitoring closely as the Lakers continue to fine-tune their long-term plans.
“Austin Reaves’ situation with the Lakers is one to monitor across the league,” Weinbach posted on X. “Reaves reportedly declined a four-year, $89.2 million extension from the Lakers last month and is widely expected to decline his $14.8 million player option next summer to become an unrestricted free agent.”
Weinbach added that if contract talks between the two sides remain far apart, the Lakers may look to trade Reaves rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2026 free agency. Such a move would be a major shift, given how integral Reaves has become to the team’s backcourt rotation.
Reaves is set to earn just under $14 million next season, but his production far exceeds that number. He averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game last year, making him one of the more efficient two-way guards in the league. While his current deal is a bargain for the Lakers, Reaves is fully aware of his rising market value.
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According to reports, Reaves turned down the Lakers’ maximum extension offer in pursuit of a more lucrative deal. He is reportedly seeking nearly $30 million annually in his next contract, meaning the team’s four-year, $89.2 million proposal may fall short of his expectations.
The Lakers have prioritized financial flexibility in recent months, focusing on acquiring players on short-term deals. That strategy is geared toward freeing up cap space for the summer of 2026, when the front office hopes to make a major splash in NBA free agency.
While Reaves has previously expressed a desire to remain with the Lakers, the two sides may be heading toward a difficult crossroads. If an agreement isn’t reached soon, Los Angeles may have to reconsider his future and potentially explore trade options before next season’s deadline.
