Austin Reaves, who has grown into a vital part of the Los Angeles Lakers since joining as an undrafted free agent, is reportedly being considered for trade as part of the Lakers’ efforts to reshape their roster. The focus on improving the team’s interior presence has led to speculation that the Lakers might move Reaves to acquire significant assets before the upcoming season.
Facing limited options to enhance their squad through trades, the Lakers appear ready to leverage Reaves’ value as their best chance to gain impactful players. One trade scenario gaining traction involves sending Reaves to the Houston Rockets in exchange for promising young forwards Jalen Duren and Cam Whitmore, with Jabari Smith Jr. reportedly headed to the Detroit Pistons.
Why the Lakers Are Prioritizing Frontcourt Strength
The Lakers have identified the center position as a critical weak spot, making it their top priority for reinforcement. Jalen Duren stands out as a potential solution due to his rebounding skills and athleticism. His ability to thrive alongside dynamic playmakers like Luka Doncic makes him an appealing fit for the Lakers’ style.
Duren’s performance in the previous season with Detroit demonstrated his value: averaging 11.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, he proved to be a reliable presence on both ends of the court. His capacity to be a constant lob threat and a physical force in the paint could provide the Lakers with the interior impact they currently lack.
Contract Concerns Influence Trade Calculations
While Austin Reaves has been a key contributor, his impending contract situation complicates the Lakers’ planning. Currently earning $13.9 million for the upcoming season under a guaranteed contract, Reaves holds a $14.8 million player option for 2026-27 that he is expected to decline in favor of free agency.
ESPN analyst Eric Pincus highlighted this potential contract challenge, explaining that Reaves is poised to explore unrestricted free agency next summer with a likely salary demand starting around $30 million annually.
“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. The most he can extend for ($19.5 million) is far short of that number.”
—Eric Pincus, Insider and Analyst
This forecast makes it unlikely the Lakers can maintain Reaves under his current terms, incentivizing the front office to consider trading him now to avoid losing him without compensation. The move would allow the Lakers to secure young talent and address their immediate need for a stronger presence inside.
Potential Impact and Next Steps for the Lakers
If the reported trade involving Austin Reaves and Jalen Duren materializes, it would signal a pronounced shift in the Lakers’ roster strategy focusing on bolstering their paint dominance. Adding Duren and Whitmore could improve defense and rebounding, while facilitating faster-paced offense with more athletic big men.
With the offseason just beginning, the Lakers appear motivated to act decisively in addressing roster gaps, especially in the frontcourt. How this trade rumor evolves will be closely watched, as it could reshape the Lakers’ championship aspirations and influence their approach to the upcoming NBA Draft and free agency periods.