Lakers Extend Reaves' Contract Ahead of Free Agency

Young star guard set to earn $241 million over 5 years with Lakers.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:00pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the abstract forms of basketball players in motion, with the Lakers' purple and gold colors prominently featured alongside the colors of their opponent, conveying the dynamic energy of the game.The Lakers' new core of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves takes shape as the team secures Reaves' long-term future.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a 5-year, $241 million contract extension with guard Austin Reaves, locking up a key piece of their roster ahead of his potential free agency this offseason. Reaves has emerged as a valuable two-way player for the Lakers since joining the team in 2022.

Why it matters

Retaining Reaves is a crucial move for the Lakers as they look to build a contending roster around star Luka Doncic. Reaves' two-way play and chemistry with Doncic make him an integral part of the Lakers' future plans as they transition to the post-LeBron James era.

The details

The 5-year, $241 million extension will keep Reaves in Los Angeles through the 2028 season. The 24-year-old guard has steadily improved each season, averaging 15.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this year. His ability to play both on and off the ball has made him a valuable complement to Doncic's playmaking.

  • Reaves was set to become a restricted free agent this offseason.

The players

Austin Reaves

A 24-year-old guard who has emerged as a key two-way player for the Lakers since joining the team in 2022.

Luka Doncic

The Lakers' new face of the franchise, an All-NBA superstar who the team is building around in the post-LeBron James era.

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What they’re saying

“Locking up Austin was a top priority for us this offseason. He's a perfect complement to Luka and we're thrilled to have him as part of our core moving forward.”

— Rob Pelinka, Lakers General Manager

What’s next

The Lakers will now turn their attention to surrounding Doncic and Reaves with the right supporting cast to build a championship contender.

The takeaway

The Lakers' extension of Reaves is a savvy move to retain a young, two-way talent as they transition to the Doncic era. Keeping Reaves in the fold is a crucial first step in the Lakers' efforts to rebuild a contender in the post-LeBron James era.