The Los Angeles Lakers are at the center of trade speculation involving their breakout star guard, Austin Reaves . Over the past two seasons, Reaves has evolved from an undrafted underdog to one of the Lakers’ most reliable offensive weapons. With his contract nearing a pivotal stage, Los Angeles faces a tough decision - whether to re-sign him to a lucrative long-term deal or explore trade options that could reshape the roster around new franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic.
Understanding the Los Angeles Lakers’ Dilemma
Austin Reaves is coming off a career-best 2024-25 season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game as a full-time starter. At 27, he’s entering his prime and is expected to decline his 2026 player option to pursue a major contract extension. The Los Angeles Lakers previously offered him nearly $89 million over four years, the maximum allowed under the salary cap at that time, but Reaves turned it down in pursuit of a deal that reflects his elevated value.
Analysts expect his next contract to fall between $30 - 40 million annually - placing him among the NBA’s top-paid shooting guards. Should he enter unrestricted free agency, the Lakers, armed with his Bird rights, would have the advantage of offering him more than any competing team. However, if Los Angeles hesitates to commit that kind of money, a sign-and-trade deal could become a realistic path, allowing them to gain assets rather than risk losing him for nothing.
How a Re-Signing or Trade Could Work for the Los Angeles Lakers
If the Los Angeles Lakers decide to retain Austin Reaves, a new deal could reach the $150 - 180 million range over four or five years. Such a move would solidify Reaves as a core piece alongside Luka Doncic while ensuring roster continuity. However, persistent trade buzz suggests Los Angeles might be open to leveraging his rising value in pursuit of an elite big man or to gain cap flexibility for future moves.
In a sign-and-trade scenario, Austin Reaves could be sent to a team in need of scoring and playmaking, while the Los Angeles Lakers would receive draft capital or valuable rotation pieces. Teams like Brooklyn, for instance, could offer a player such as Nic Claxton, while other franchises might dangle young prospects or defensive depth in exchange for Reaves’ offensive skill set and star potential.
Winners and Losers: Who Gains What
• Los Angeles Lakers: Keeping Reaves ensures a proven playmaker and fan favorite remains in the fold. His ability to score, create, and complement Luka Doncic gives the Lakers one of the league’s most dynamic backcourts. Should the team decide to trade him, they could fill major gaps - especially in rim protection or depth - while maintaining roster flexibility.
• Austin Reaves: Staying in Los Angeles provides stability, fame, and continuity with the franchise that gave him his NBA start. A trade, however, would still position him as a featured offensive star elsewhere, likely with a massive payday and expanded role.
• Potential Trade Partners: Any team landing Reaves would gain a 27-year-old entering his prime, coming off a near All-Star-caliber season, and capable of leading an offense. His playoff experience and leadership qualities make him an attractive fit for franchises balancing competitiveness and long-term development.
Austin Reaves: Statistical Growth (2022–2025)
The steady climb in points, assists, and minutes showcases Reaves’ transition from role player to full-fledged offensive engine. His efficiency has remained strong despite a heavier workload - a sign of maturity and improved shot selection.
Austin Reaves' Player Profile
• Height: 6’5”
• Weight: 89 kg
• College: Oklahoma
• Birthplace: Arkansas
• Experience: 4th NBA season
The Case for Keeping Austin Reaves
Pros
• Provides elite secondary scoring and reliable playmaking next to Luka Doncic.
• Young enough to be part of both a win-now and long-term vision.
• Deep connection with Lakers fans and established chemistry within the team.
• Retaining him protects the Lakers’ investment and preserves trade leverage for the future.
Cons
• A massive contract could restrict financial flexibility under the new CBA.
• His defense remains a question mark, especially in a Doncic-Reaves backcourt.
• A high-value deal could hinder the team’s ability to add frontcourt depth or defensive specialists.
• Risk of stagnation if his development plateaus or fit with Luka doesn’t fully materialize.
The Case for Trading Austin Reaves
Pros
• Potential to acquire much-needed defensive or frontcourt help.
• Reduces luxury tax pressure and opens cap space for future acquisitions.
• Prevents overpaying for a player whose defensive limitations could be exposed in the playoffs.
Cons
• Losing a homegrown star who has voiced loyalty to the franchise.
• The trade could disrupt chemistry and alienate fans.
• Risk that the acquired assets fail to match Reaves’ current or future production.
My Final Opinion on this Mock Trade: Who Comes Out on Top
Re-signing Austin Reaves appears to be the most balanced path forward - provided the Los Angeles Lakers can secure him for around $30–35 million annually. This approach retains one of their most consistent performers while maintaining room for future roster flexibility. However, if a blockbuster trade package or a game-changing frontcourt player becomes available, Los Angeles might be compelled to make a move.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Should Target $85 Million ex-Indiana Pacers Superstar to Form Big 3 With Luka and LeBron
In the end, keeping Austin Reaves symbolizes the Los Angeles Lakers’ commitment to youth, continuity, and offensive creativity. Trading him, on the other hand, only makes sense if it results in a significant upgrade or a reallocation of assets around Luka Doncic. Either way, Reaves’ situation remains one of the most compelling storylines heading into the 2026 offseason - one that could define the next era of Lakers basketball.
Understanding the Los Angeles Lakers’ Dilemma
Austin Reaves is coming off a career-best 2024-25 season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game as a full-time starter. At 27, he’s entering his prime and is expected to decline his 2026 player option to pursue a major contract extension. The Los Angeles Lakers previously offered him nearly $89 million over four years, the maximum allowed under the salary cap at that time, but Reaves turned it down in pursuit of a deal that reflects his elevated value.
Analysts expect his next contract to fall between $30 - 40 million annually - placing him among the NBA’s top-paid shooting guards. Should he enter unrestricted free agency, the Lakers, armed with his Bird rights, would have the advantage of offering him more than any competing team. However, if Los Angeles hesitates to commit that kind of money, a sign-and-trade deal could become a realistic path, allowing them to gain assets rather than risk losing him for nothing.
How a Re-Signing or Trade Could Work for the Los Angeles Lakers
If the Los Angeles Lakers decide to retain Austin Reaves, a new deal could reach the $150 - 180 million range over four or five years. Such a move would solidify Reaves as a core piece alongside Luka Doncic while ensuring roster continuity. However, persistent trade buzz suggests Los Angeles might be open to leveraging his rising value in pursuit of an elite big man or to gain cap flexibility for future moves.
In a sign-and-trade scenario, Austin Reaves could be sent to a team in need of scoring and playmaking, while the Los Angeles Lakers would receive draft capital or valuable rotation pieces. Teams like Brooklyn, for instance, could offer a player such as Nic Claxton, while other franchises might dangle young prospects or defensive depth in exchange for Reaves’ offensive skill set and star potential.
Winners and Losers: Who Gains What
• Los Angeles Lakers: Keeping Reaves ensures a proven playmaker and fan favorite remains in the fold. His ability to score, create, and complement Luka Doncic gives the Lakers one of the league’s most dynamic backcourts. Should the team decide to trade him, they could fill major gaps - especially in rim protection or depth - while maintaining roster flexibility.
• Austin Reaves: Staying in Los Angeles provides stability, fame, and continuity with the franchise that gave him his NBA start. A trade, however, would still position him as a featured offensive star elsewhere, likely with a massive payday and expanded role.
• Potential Trade Partners: Any team landing Reaves would gain a 27-year-old entering his prime, coming off a near All-Star-caliber season, and capable of leading an offense. His playoff experience and leadership qualities make him an attractive fit for franchises balancing competitiveness and long-term development.
Austin Reaves: Statistical Growth (2022–2025)
The steady climb in points, assists, and minutes showcases Reaves’ transition from role player to full-fledged offensive engine. His efficiency has remained strong despite a heavier workload - a sign of maturity and improved shot selection.
Austin Reaves' Player Profile
• Height: 6’5”
• Weight: 89 kg
• College: Oklahoma
• Birthplace: Arkansas
• Experience: 4th NBA season
The Case for Keeping Austin Reaves
Pros
• Provides elite secondary scoring and reliable playmaking next to Luka Doncic.
• Young enough to be part of both a win-now and long-term vision.
• Deep connection with Lakers fans and established chemistry within the team.
• Retaining him protects the Lakers’ investment and preserves trade leverage for the future.
Cons
• A massive contract could restrict financial flexibility under the new CBA.
• His defense remains a question mark, especially in a Doncic-Reaves backcourt.
• A high-value deal could hinder the team’s ability to add frontcourt depth or defensive specialists.
• Risk of stagnation if his development plateaus or fit with Luka doesn’t fully materialize.
The Case for Trading Austin Reaves
Pros
• Potential to acquire much-needed defensive or frontcourt help.
• Reduces luxury tax pressure and opens cap space for future acquisitions.
• Prevents overpaying for a player whose defensive limitations could be exposed in the playoffs.
Cons
• Losing a homegrown star who has voiced loyalty to the franchise.
• The trade could disrupt chemistry and alienate fans.
• Risk that the acquired assets fail to match Reaves’ current or future production.
My Final Opinion on this Mock Trade: Who Comes Out on Top
Re-signing Austin Reaves appears to be the most balanced path forward - provided the Los Angeles Lakers can secure him for around $30–35 million annually. This approach retains one of their most consistent performers while maintaining room for future roster flexibility. However, if a blockbuster trade package or a game-changing frontcourt player becomes available, Los Angeles might be compelled to make a move.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Should Target $85 Million ex-Indiana Pacers Superstar to Form Big 3 With Luka and LeBron
In the end, keeping Austin Reaves symbolizes the Los Angeles Lakers’ commitment to youth, continuity, and offensive creativity. Trading him, on the other hand, only makes sense if it results in a significant upgrade or a reallocation of assets around Luka Doncic. Either way, Reaves’ situation remains one of the most compelling storylines heading into the 2026 offseason - one that could define the next era of Lakers basketball.
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