Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has brushed off recent public remarks from Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul that suggested the Lakers move him to the bench or even trade him for Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr., according to a report by The Athletic.
A team source told the outlet that Reaves “didn’t pay much attention” to Paul’s comments. The same source said one of Reaves’ representatives approached Paul at halftime of Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks to address the situation directly.
Reaves, 25, is in the final season of his current contract and has repeatedly said he hopes to remain with Los Angeles long-term. Before a recent calf injury sidelined him, the undrafted guard was averaging All-Star–level numbers and was considered a key reason for the Lakers’ strong start.
Paul’s suggestions came while Reaves continues his rehabilitation. The agent first floated the idea of a bench role, then escalated to the possibility of a trade for Jackson. Those ideas drew quick attention around the league and within the Lakers organization.
Teammate LeBron James, a longtime Klutch Sports client, publicly distanced himself from Paul’s remarks. “AR knows how I feel about him,” James told ESPN. “Rich has his perspective; I have mine. I’m a grown man, he’s a grown man, and people should realize that.”
Los Angeles has struggled without Reaves in the lineup, increasing the urgency for his return. No official timetable has been announced for his comeback.
Source: LakersNation
