As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to make a push for superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason, they will face a crucial decision regarding the future of Austin Reaves. According to multiple league sources, Luka Doncic, who is expected to be a central figure in the Lakers’ roster-building efforts, has made it clear that he does not want Reaves included in any trade package for Antetokounmpo.
Doncic, who views Reaves as an essential long-term partner, has conveyed his preference to the Lakers’ front office, signaling that he sees the duo as the foundation for future success. The Lakers are expected to pursue Antetokounmpo this summer, but Doncic’s vision is to build a roster centered around himself, Reaves, and whichever other star the team can acquire.
Reaves, however, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, and his future with the Lakers is not guaranteed. While both the Lakers and Reaves are expected to come to terms on a new agreement, the market for the 25-year-old could complicate matters. Rival executives believe Reaves could command a salary in the range of $40 million per season, a figure driven by his strong production, age, and the lack of similar players available in the free-agent market.
Teams like the Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets have the cap space to offer Reaves that kind of deal, while the Utah Jazz and Atlanta Hawks have also expressed interest, though both would need to make additional roster moves to accommodate his contract.
Over the past two seasons, Reaves has averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.6 rebounds across at least 100 games. Only a handful of players — including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, Cade Cunningham, LaMelo Ball, Luka Doncic, and LeBron James — have matched those numbers over the same period, highlighting Reaves’ significant value.
For the Lakers, balancing the financial aspects of re-signing Reaves with their broader offseason goals will be key. High-ranking team sources indicate that ensuring the roster complements Doncic’s playing style will be the top priority when deciding how to approach Reaves’ contract.
