Los Angeles — Former Los Angeles Lakers forward and seven-time NBA champion Robert Horry advised guard Austin Reaves to take the most lucrative contract available when free agency opens next month.
Speaking on ESPN LA Radio, Horry reminded the 28-year-old that “he has to do what is best for him,” even if that means leaving the Lakers. “Let’s say some team is going to offer you $180 million, and the Lakers are going to offer you $120 million. That is $40 million,” Horry said. “I know Austin very well, he ain’t the sexiest guy so he ain’t gonna get those off-court endorsements. So he’s got to make up that $40 million.”
Reaves is expected to decline his player option and enter the market as an unrestricted free agent after a career-best season that was interrupted by injuries. Los Angeles can offer a five-year contract worth up to $239 million but has not indicated it will reach that figure. If the Lakers set an offer closer to $120 million, Horry believes Reaves should “go get more elsewhere.”
The Brooklyn Nets are viewed by league observers as a potential suitor and could extend a four-year package projected around $180 million. Whether Brooklyn’s interest is genuine or a leverage play to maximize Reaves’ salary remains unclear.
Free agency officially begins in one month, leaving time for both the Lakers and competing clubs to adjust their plans before Reaves makes a final decision.
Source: LakersNation.com
