Austin Reaves’ Contract Decision Looms as Lakers Guard Nears Free Agency
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Hoops Rumors’ December 21, 2025 weekly mailbag examined whether Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves will exercise his player option for next season or decline it in pursuit of a larger payday.
The column notes that Reaves is improving his market value during a contract year, prompting speculation that the 27-year-old could command a maximum deal if he reaches unrestricted free agency. Reaves, however, reiterated last month in an ESPN interview that his priority is staying with the Lakers.
“I’ve said it a million times. I want to be in L.A. I love it,” Reaves told ESPN. “Even though the other extension was turned down, that doesn’t mean I’m trying to go get a f—ing gigantic number that doesn’t make sense. I want to be here, I want to win.”
The mailbag also addressed questions about several NBA players struggling through early-season slumps, but Reaves’ pending decision was the primary focus.
Source: Hoops Rumors
