Lakers Poised to Retain Austin Reaves While LeBron James Considers Next Move
SLUG: lakers-set-to-retain-austin-reaves-as-lebron-james-mulls-future
The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to re-sign guard Austin Reaves once he declines his player option and enters unrestricted free agency this offseason, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
Reaves, 26, has emerged as a key contributor for the franchise, averaging 23.3 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.5 assists last season while solidifying his role alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
The outlook for James is far less certain. The four-time MVP, 41, is heading into unrestricted free agency for the first time since 2018 and has not publicly committed to playing another year. Retirement and a return to Los Angeles both remain on the table, and outside speculation continues to link him to other clubs, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors.
With no timetable for James’s decision, the Lakers are expected to give the veteran forward room to determine his plans. Meanwhile, the organization’s intention to keep Reaves appears straightforward, and signs indicate the guard will stay in Los Angeles.
Source: Hoops Wire
