Austin Reaves Heading Toward Lakers Extension: $240 Million Offer on the Table
Austin Reaves is expected to decline his player option and test NBA free agency, but the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly have no doubts: they are ready to secure him with a five-year, $240 million max contract
The Los Angeles Lakers are already planning one of the most important moves of the upcoming NBA offseason. Beyond the contract situation of LeBron James, the franchise must also address the future of Austin Reaves, who according to several reports is preparing to opt out of his current deal and enter free agency.
However, the Lakers’ front office does not appear worried about losing him.
According to sources close to the organization, the Lakers are ready to place a five-year, $240 million contract on the table to ensure Reaves remains with the franchise long-term.
The Lakers plan to offer Austin Reaves a five-year, $240 million contract when free agency begins. Inside the organization there’s no fear of losing him, especially since the player has expressed a desire to spend his entire career with the Lakers
NBA insider
Austin Reaves ready to decline his player option
Reaves’ current deal includes a $14.8 million player option for next season. All signs suggest he will decline it in order to enter the market and negotiate a brand-new contract.
The decision appears logical: his performance over the past seasons has far exceeded the value of his current deal.
Entering the league in 2021 as an undrafted player, Reaves gradually carved out a role with the Lakers. Initially used as a role player, he steadily expanded his responsibilities until becoming one of the team’s most reliable pieces.
Now 27 years old, he is entering the prime of his career.
A key partner alongside Luka Doncic
Following the arrival of Luka Doncic, the Lakers’ offensive structure has changed significantly. With LeBron James’ future still uncertain, the franchise needs reliable pillars around the Slovenian superstar.
In that scenario, Austin Reaves has emerged as one of the most dependable players on the roster.
The 6’5” guard (196 cm, about 89 kg) offers a well-rounded offensive skillset:
- capable shot creator off the dribble
- effective in isolation situations
- consistently creates opportunities for teammates
- maintains strong shooting efficiency
His season numbers highlight his development. Through 39 games, Reaves is averaging:
- 23.7 points
- 4.8 rebounds
- 5.5 assists
- 1.1 steals
while shooting 49.5% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range.
Lakers convinced: Reaves is part of the future
Inside the organization, the belief is clear: Reaves is one of the players the Lakers want to build around. His scoring ability and playmaking make him an ideal backcourt partner for Doncic.
That’s why Los Angeles appears ready to make a major financial commitment to avoid any risk once free agency opens.
After five seasons in purple and gold, the guard has gone from undrafted gamble to cornerstone player – and staying with the Lakers could be the natural next chapter of his career.