In the NBA, loyalty is a rare currency—and it seems like Austin Reaves just learned that the hard way.
After pouring his heart and soul into the purple and gold, undrafted guard Austin Reaves rose from obscurity to become one of the Lakers’ most reliable and beloved players. He hustled on defense, made clutch plays in the postseason, and became a fan favorite almost overnight. But now? His name is swirling in trade rumors—as if none of that ever mattered.
Yes, you read that right. The same Austin Reaves who gave the Lakers a spark when stars fell flat. The same Reaves who stayed loyal, took a team-friendly deal, and even said he wanted to retire a Laker. Now he’s reportedly being tossed into trade talks like some throw-in asset.
Is this really how the Lakers reward loyalty?
Sources say the front office is “exploring all options” to build around LeBron James and Luka Dončić, which includes potentially packaging Reaves in a blockbuster deal. But fans aren’t buying it. Social media has erupted in disbelief, calling out the team for even considering moving Reaves.
“He’s the glue guy,” one fan tweeted. “We trade him and we lose the heart of this team.”
Let’s not forget what Reaves brought to the table. When stars were out or struggling, Reaves stepped up. He ran the offense, played fearless basketball, and embraced the spotlight like a seasoned vet. He wasn’t just a role player—he was a Laker through and through.
But in a league driven by cold numbers and big names, heart doesn’t always make the cut.
It’s a bitter pill for fans who saw Reaves as the next long-term cornerstone. And for Reaves himself, who has stayed quiet amid the rumors, it must feel like déjà vu—overlooked once again, despite proving everyone wrong.
If the Lakers do pull the trigger, they’d better be sure it’s worth it. Because losing Austin Reaves? That’s not just giving up a player.
It’s giving up the soul of the team.
