Austin Reaves Poised for Massive Lakers Deal

Lakers prioritize keeping young star despite LeBron's uncertain future

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:12pm

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The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to offer a lucrative, long-term contract to guard Austin Reaves this offseason, with reports indicating he could land a five-year deal worth over $220 million to remain in purple and gold. Despite interest from other teams, Reaves is reportedly committed to staying with the Lakers, who view him as a core part of their future alongside Luka Doncic.

Why it matters

Retaining Reaves is seen as a crucial move for the Lakers, who are facing an uncertain future with LeBron James potentially leaving in free agency. Reaves has emerged as a breakout star, averaging over 23 points per game this season, and keeping him in Los Angeles would provide stability and a foundation to build around.

The details

Reaves, an undrafted player in 2021, has quickly developed into one of the league's better young guards. He recently dropped 51 points in a game with both LeBron and Doncic sidelined, showcasing his ability to carry the team. The Lakers are prepared to offer Reaves a massive five-year deal worth over $220 million to keep him in Los Angeles, despite interest from other teams.

  • Reaves is expected to opt out of his $14.9 million player option and become an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The players

Austin Reaves

A 24-year-old guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who has emerged as a breakout star, averaging over 23 points per game this season.

LeBron James

The Lakers' veteran superstar who is also heading into free agency this summer on a $52.6 million expiring deal.

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What they’re saying

“The general consensus around the league says the same for Reaves, who will be an unrestricted free agent once he opts out of his $14.9 million player option, with several rumored suitors already lining up. Despite teams being ready to throw a massive contract at Reaves in free agency, he holds no desire to leave the Lakers, sources told ClutchPoints.”

— Brett Siegel, Reporter

What’s next

The Lakers will need to determine how to structure Reaves' new contract while also addressing LeBron James' future with the team. Keeping Reaves is seen as a priority, but the team's financial situation with James' potential departure will be a key factor.

The takeaway

The Lakers' decision to prioritize retaining Austin Reaves on a long-term, lucrative deal highlights the young guard's rapid rise and the team's desire to build around him as a core piece, even as they face an uncertain future with LeBron James.