Late Friday night, sources close to the matter reported that guard Austin Reaves had turned down a four-year maximum contract extension worth $89.2 million, in a startling turn of events that might change the course of the Los Angeles Lakers’ future. Both the Lakers organization and the league have been rocked by the move, and many are wondering what the emerging star will do next.
Reaves’ rugged style, high basketball IQ, and clutch performance have made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles. He is currently 26 years old. Reaves rose through the Lakers’ system fast after going undrafted in 2021, earning a starting spot beside to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He is one of the league’s most important young assets because of his flexibility, ability to make shots, and defensive grit.
According to reports, the Lakers made the offer last week as part of their long-term plan to keep their core players, which would have paid him about $22.3 million a season. Reaves and his agents, according to reports, are looking for a more significant role and perhaps a different setting where he might be a lead or secondary choice rather than merely a supporting actor.
One league insider stated, “Money isn’t the issue here.” “Austin thinks he can do more, and the market is keeping a close eye on him.”
The Lakers, who already have concerns about LeBron James’ future and the team’s future under new head coach JJ Redick, now have even more uncertainty as a result of the decision.
Losing Reaves without receiving an equivalent amount in return might be a significant blow given the restricted cap space and dearth of trade assets.
The San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets are among the teams allegedly keeping an eye on the issue; they all have cap flexibility and might be able to give Reaves a more prominent role.
During the 2024–25 season, Reaves shot 48% from the field and nearly 40% from beyond the arc, averaging 15.9 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. One of the few positive developments for the Lakers in recent years has been his growth. The Lakers are “hopeful” that they can re-engage Reaves before free agency starts, according to team sources, but they have not released an official statement.
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