The Big Lead

Austin Reaves’ reported $30 million contract expectation could be problem for Lakers

Austin Reaves' future could lie away from the Los Angeles Lakers as an NBA insider reported about his potential $30 million expectations.

By Divij Kulkarni

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the 2024 NBA Playoffs. / Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
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The Los Angeles Lakers have massive questions about their roster going into this NBA offseason. Having acquired Luka Doncic, the team needs to add size and defense desperately. This means there have been conversations about trades, and a lot of those have involved Austin Reaves.

Reaves' agent made a strong statement about the rumors, warning fans that they're not ready for how good Austin is going to become. This suggests that both the Lakers guard and his agent think he can grow even more than his current borderline All-Star production.

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Reaves is under contract for two more seasons with the team. However, he has a player option for the 2026-27 season. Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus recently reported that the 26-year-old expects that his salary will double in his next contract.

"Reaves is nearly sure to decline his $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season to explore unrestricted free agency next summer, seeking a salary in the $30 million starting range.

"The most he can extend for ($19.5 million) is far short of that number. Any team acquiring him would need behind-the-scenes assurances that he'd re-sign at a pre-arranged price, although they wouldn't be technically legal or binding."

Reaves averaged more than 20 points per game this season. He flourished as the Lakers' third option, announcing his potential to be more than just a role player to the league. Many teams will want Reaves if they can get him in free agency. The Lakers have quite the decision to make.

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