Lakers' Austin Reaves Must Fix $53M Playoff Problem to Solidify Trio with LeBron, Luka

Reaves is preparing for another playoff run, but he may need to adjust his game to be a consistent third option.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 11:35am

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The Los Angeles Lakers are headed to the playoffs and are expected to offer Austin Reaves a five-year, $240 million contract this offseason. However, Reaves has been struggling with his shot and may need to focus more on attacking the basket rather than settling for outside shots. The Lakers will need Reaves to be at his best, especially with the defensive attention teams will throw at Luka Doncic.

Why it matters

Reaves' performance in the playoffs could determine whether he solidifies his role as a key third option alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. If he can adjust his game and be more assertive in attacking the basket, he could help the Lakers make a deep playoff run.

The details

Reaves has been falling back into a habit of settling for outside shots, which is not when he is at his best. The Lakers need him to be more aggressive in driving to the basket and creating scoring opportunities. Reaves is a smart player, and he will likely adjust, but he cannot afford to disappear during a playoff series.

  • The Lakers are headed to the playoffs after a nine-game winning streak.

The players

Austin Reaves

A talented undrafted guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who is expected to receive a five-year, $240 million contract this offseason.

LeBron James

The superstar forward for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Luka Doncic

The superstar guard who is expected to join the Lakers and form a trio with LeBron James and Austin Reaves.

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What they’re saying

“In other words — when Reaves and LeBron are on the court without Luka, can AR15 be the lead scoring option? Perhaps more importantly, when all three are on the court, are Luka and LeBron willing to step aside and let Reaves cook?”

— Quinn Everts, Writer, Lake Show Life

“That paints a clear picture of the skill that Reaves should be prioritizing. He should absolutely continue to shoot the three, but his overemphasis on the outside shot is about more than numbers. He's sacrificing driving opportunities to fix a shot that isn't working when the Lakers need him to be more assertive in attacking the basket.”

— Maxwell Ogden, Writer, Lake Show Life

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.