The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical decision as Austin Reaves aims for a $160 million contract, setting the stage for complex roster moves around superstar Luka Doncic. Reaves’ representatives reject a four-year, $90 million extension, believing his value will rise significantly by next summer when he turns 28, especially amid an increasing salary cap.
Team Management Considers Salary Cap Flexibility
The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, seems prepared to delay Reaves’ re-signing, using strategic salary cap management to prioritize other major acquisitions first. Reaves’ 2026 cap hold is just above the mid-level exception, allowing Pelinka to spend heavily in free agency before re-engaging Reaves by utilizing Bird Rights. This approach aims to sustain cap space while keeping future options open.
Building a Championship Team Around Luka Doncic
Experts like Sam Vecenie highlight that the next two years are pivotal for the Lakers to construct a competitive roster centered on Luka Doncic, whose $49.6 million salary is the only guaranteed large contract in 2026. Other players on the roster are either inexpensive, on short contracts, or may leave, providing the Lakers with near-max salary cap flexibility to pursue top-tier talent.
Challenges Loom in Roster Decisions and Trades
The Lakers must balance whether to meet Reaves’ contract demands while maintaining cap space to attract key players and keep Doncic satisfied. Additional complications arise if players like Deandre Ayton become difficult to trade, potentially limiting flexibility. The organization faces mounting pressure to make decisive moves during the upcoming offseasons.
Uncertainty Marks the Lakers’ Offseason Strategy
The Lakers’ approach to navigating the intertwined futures of Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic carries significant consequences for their championship aspirations. Whether Reaves’ gamble on a $160 million deal pays off, and how Pelinka manages the salary cap puzzle, will likely determine the franchise’s competitive trajectory over the next several seasons.
“There’s no circumstance where he takes a four-year, $90M extension,” —Sam Vecenie, Analyst
“These next two years are the years where they have to make their team now.” —Sam Vecenie, Analyst