Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves said he hopes to stay alongside LeBron James next season, even though both players will hit unrestricted free agency this summer.
Speaking after the season, the 28-year-old guard explained that playing with James “would mean the world” because he has never opened an NBA campaign without the four-time MVP on the roster. Reaves credited James for guiding him from a two-way contract in 2021 to a starting role and near All-Star status.
“My rookie year I had no idea what was going on, and he basically took me under his wing,” Reaves said. “He’s given me every opportunity I could ask for and built a real friendship beyond the court.”
The Lakers are projected to have roughly $50 million in salary-cap space and can re-sign both veterans without major roster upheaval. Reaves appears likely to return, though he is reportedly seeking a maximum contract. Whether Los Angeles meets that price—or another team does—remains uncertain.
James, who would turn 42 early in the 2026-27 season, must decide whether to retire or pursue a 24th NBA campaign. The Lakers, meanwhile, have to weigh how much to invest in one of the league’s oldest active players.
Reaves said he hopes the two sides reach an agreement that keeps James in purple and gold. “He’s taught me a lot, and I owe him for my career,” the guard noted, recalling James’ encouragement after a late-game miss: “He said, ‘Hell of a shot. Keep your head up.’ It shows the kind of character he has.”
No timelines for decisions have been announced by either player or the team.
Source: LakersNation.com
