Amid persistent speculation about Austin Reaves’ future with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent has firmly dismissed trade rumors and hinted at a significant turnaround ahead. These developments come as Reaves navigates a challenging playoff stretch, raising questions about his role and value within the Lakers’ roster.

Agent Challenges Speculation Around Reaves’ Trade Value

The Los Angeles Lakers have faced ongoing chatter about potentially trading Austin Reaves, especially after his recent struggles against the Minnesota Timberwolves where he averaged 16.2 points while shooting just 41.1% from the field, marking the lowest shooting percentage in his playoff career. Such performances have amplified discussions about whether the Lakers should consider moving Reaves for a starting-caliber player.

Despite this, Reaves’ agent Aaron Reilly has publicly pushed back against the notion that the Lakers should trade him for lesser players, particularly backups at the center position—a spot the Lakers desperately need filled. Reilly emphasized that many underestimate what Reaves will bring in the near future, dismissing the trade chatter as shortsighted.

Next year is going to be a show,

Aaron Reilly wrote.

People have no idea what’s to come. Keep putting him in trade rumors for second string centers.

—Aaron Reilly, Agent

Contract Status Raises Strategic Decisions for the Lakers

According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Reaves is expected to decline his player option for the 2026-27 season, which pays $14.9 million, to test unrestricted free agency. This decision means the Lakers must carefully evaluate their options, as Reaves could command a significantly higher salary—estimated around $30 million—from other teams, which they might not be able to match.

The timing of any potential trade involving Reaves is crucial. His current market value is relatively high, but if the Lakers wait too long, they risk losing him in free agency without receiving assets in return. Pincus notes that any team interested in acquiring Reaves would likely need some private understanding about his willingness to re-sign, which is not legally binding but often influences deals.

Reaves is nearly sure to decline his $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season to explore unrestricted free agency next summer, seeking a salary in the $30 million starting range,

Pincus wrote.

The most he can extend for ($19.5 million) is far short of that number. Any team acquiring him would need behind-the-scenes assurances that he’d re-sign at a pre-arranged price, although they wouldn’t be technically legal or binding.

—Eric Pincus, Bleacher Report

Lakers’ Reluctance to Trade Reaves Despite Outside Speculation

While some voices in the media have suggested that the Lakers might part ways with Reaves, trusted reporters including Jovan Buha of The Athletic believe the possibility of a trade this offseason is minimal. Buha highlights that the Lakers have consistently placed a high value on Reaves over the past three years and maintain a strong inclination to keep him as part of the team’s core.

Public endorsements from team executives and former players reinforce this stance. Both Rob Polinka, the Lakers’ executive, and analyst JJ Redick expressed confidence in Reaves during the Lakers’ recent exit interviews, further signaling the organization’s commitment.

Rob called him one of the pillars of the organization. Going back a couple of months, JJ mentioned Austin in that conversation that he, LeBron and Luka had about the state of the offense at that time and JJ said at the time, of course Austin would be included in this conversation,

Buha said. —Jovan Buha, The Athletic

The Lakers’ ongoing loyalty mirrors previous surprises, as seen with Anthony Davis, whose departure was not anticipated during the season. This context suggests that while no trade is expected imminently, the team remains open to future possibilities depending on how circumstances evolve.

Implications for Reaves and the Lakers Moving Forward

The uncertain outlook surrounding Austin Reaves reflects the broader challenge for the Lakers as they seek to build a competitive roster that can maximize the talents of established stars like LeBron James and Luka. With the need for a reliable starting center and considerations about salary cap management, Reaves’ performance and contract status will remain critical factors in shaping the franchise’s strategy.

Reaves’ agent’s confident forecast and public backing from Lakers leadership indicate that, despite current frustrations, there is optimism about his impact in coming seasons. For Lakers fans and management alike, the focus will be on how Reaves can rebound from his recent shooting struggles and prove to be a vital piece in the team’s playoff ambitions.