The Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has been at the center of offseason discussions about potential trades, as the team looks to assemble a roster focusing on Luka Dončić and possibly LeBron James if he opts for free agency. Despite this trade speculation, Reaves expressed a strong desire to remain with the Lakers and finish his career in Los Angeles, although he acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies beyond his control.
Contract Status Makes Reaves a Trade Asset
Reaves’ standout season coincides with a strategic opportunity for the Lakers, as he heads into the final year of his contract with a player option for the 2026-27 season. This timing raises the possibility of the Lakers using him as part of a trade package to address team needs, particularly if they want to benefit before he reaches unrestricted free agency next summer. At 26 years old, Reaves is considered a valuable commodity for any franchise.
Reaves Expresses Commitment to the Lakers
Speaking at his Reaves Brothers Basketball Camp, Reaves conveyed his loyalty and passion for Los Angeles, emphasizing his wish to stay with the team for his entire career:
“I want to be in L.A.”
“If they want to trade me, then we’ll start something new somewhere else. But like I said, I want to be in L.A. I want to be in L.A. I want to play my whole career in L.A. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball. I don’t pay attention to [the noise]. I keep my head down, work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.”
—Austin Reaves
Lakers’ Trade Interest Hinges on Receiving a Top Big Man
Despite rumors, the Lakers reportedly have no plans to trade Reaves unless they can acquire a top-tier big man, a position they consider their most significant need. This cautious approach suggests the Lakers value Reaves highly and view him as a key part of their future lineup rather than a guaranteed trade chip.
Reaves’ Breakout Season and Playoff Performance
In his fourth season with the Lakers, Reaves posted career bests in points (20.2), assists (5.8), and rebounds (4.5) per game while starting every game and increasing his offensive role. He also improved his three-point shooting significantly. However, his postseason was inconsistent, highlighted by only a single 20-point game across five playoff matches, a sharp drop in shooting accuracy beyond the arc, and a season-high turnover count during the Lakers’ final game.
Agent Responds to Critics and Trade Talk
Reaves’ agent, Aaron Reilly, responded to playoff critics and trade rumors on social media, suggesting that people underestimate Reaves’ future impact and mocking the idea of trading him for less valuable players:
“Next year is going to be a show,”
“People really have no idea what’s to come. Keep putting him in trade rumors for second-string centers.”
—Aaron Reilly
Reaves’ Development from Two-Way Contract to Core Player
Since joining the Lakers on a two-way contract in 2021, Reaves earned a standard contract before his rookie year and steadily increased his playing time and role. His progression from a roster fringe player to a core contributor reflects his work ethic and the organization’s confidence in his potential.
The Future Outlook for Austin Reaves and the Lakers
As trade discussions continue to swirl, Austin Reaves’ insistence on staying in Los Angeles and the Lakers’ selective trade interest indicate that any moves involving him will be carefully considered. His development, age, and contract status all position him as a significant figure in the Lakers’ plans, while the team’s quest for a top-tier big man remains a critical factor in roster decisions going forward.