If Lakers Plan to Keep Austin Reaves, Price Tag Could Hit $40 Million a Year
lakers-could-pay-40-million-to-keep-austin-reaves
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is poised for a major payday after declining his player option and entering unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career, according to The Athletic’s Dan Woike and Sam Amick.
Rival front-office executives told the outlet that Reaves, 27, could command about $40 million per season, a figure driven by his steady improvement, his prime playing age and a free-agent market thin on comparable talent.
Five-Year Climb Sets Up Lucrative Deal
Signed by the Lakers as an undrafted rookie out of Oklahoma in 2021, Reaves has raised his production in each of his five NBA seasons. He is coming off what sources described as a borderline All-Star campaign, strengthening his negotiating position.
Lakers, Reaves Share Interest in Reunion
General manager Rob Pelinka said during his end-of-season media session that both sides want to continue the partnership, but league observers note Reaves is free to accept a richer offer elsewhere. Some potential suitors have already surfaced, and separate reports indicate Luka Dončić would like to see Reaves remain in Los Angeles, adding weight to the Lakers’ push to re-sign him.
LeBron James Praises Teammate’s Growth
LeBron James, who has played alongside Reaves throughout the guard’s NBA run, applauded his progression. “Just seeing AR grow over, what, five years? It’s been nothing short of amazing,” James said after the season ended, citing Reaves’ work ethic and willingness to embrace big moments.
Whether the Lakers match an outside bid or strike an agreement before one materializes, keeping Reaves appears likely to require one of the largest contracts in franchise history for an undrafted player.
Source: LakersNation.com
