Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is expected to decline his $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season and explore unrestricted free agency next summer. According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Reaves will likely seek a starting salary of around $30 million on his next deal.
Reaves’ current contract extension would pay him $19.5 million, far short of his desired $30 million starting salary. Any team acquiring Reaves would need behind-the-scenes assurances that he’d re-sign at a pre-arranged price, although these wouldn’t be technically legal or binding.
The Lakers might struggle to afford Reaves’ desired salary, especially if LeBron James retires and the team needs to sign him to a potential two-year, $105 million deal. Some speculate the Lakers might trade Reaves if they can’t meet his salary demands, but Reaves’ agent has hinted that the team wouldn’t get a good deal without being serious about re-signing him.
Reaves has been a key player for the Lakers, averaging 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game in the 2024-25 season. His impressive performance has led to speculation about his future with the team. The Lakers’ ability to retain Reaves will depend on their salary cap situation and their priorities for the upcoming season. If Reaves continues to perform at a high level, the Lakers might consider paying him his desired salary or exploring trade options to acquire other talent.
