Austin Reaves Welcomes Major Overhaul to Lakers Roster
austin-reaves-welcomes-major-overhaul-to-lakers-roster
Guard Austin Reaves said he is “very excited” about the Los Angeles Lakers’ off-season remake, which now centers on Luka Doncic and himself after a sweeping roster turnover.
New faces in Los Angeles
Since the end of last season, the Lakers have:
- Completed a sign-and-trade for center Walker Kessler
- Signed guards Quentin Grimes and Colin Sexton
- Added forwards Sandro Mamukelashvili and Kevon Looney
All five players who opened Game 1 of the 2026 first-round series against the Houston Rockets have departed. The team is still seeking additional forwards, specifically a starting-caliber power forward.
Reaves on departures and opportunity
Speaking with KRCR Channel 7’s Keith Jouganatos, Reaves acknowledged the difficulty of seeing longtime teammates leave—most notably LeBron James—but framed the changes as a fresh start. “You never want to see people you’ve been with for years leave… But it’s a good opportunity for us to turn the page and see what’s next,” he said.
Shift toward youth and pace
Head coach JJ Redick has voiced support for a younger, faster roster, aligning with the front office’s moves. Reaves is expected to sign a maximum-value contract this summer, solidifying him as Doncic’s backcourt partner.
Championship focus with Doncic
Los Angeles has not won a title since 2020. After Doncic’s MVP-caliber 2025-26 season ended with an injury that sidelined him for the entire postseason, the organization is under pressure to assemble a contender in a crowded Western Conference. Reaves said he is driven to pursue a championship alongside the Slovenian star.
The Lakers are expected to continue pursuing wing depth before training camp opens.
Source: LakersNation.com
