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LA Lakers guard Austin Reaves has had an amazing story while reaching the top. An undrafted prospect in the 2021 NBA, Reaves agreed on a two-year contract with the Lakers. However, his future still remains in mystery with a free agency decision looming.
Big prediction from NBA executive
As per a report from ESPN, an NBA executive has made a shocking prediction on Reaves' future in the league.
"I think he will get $30 [million] plus," the executive said.
The guard, who signed a four-year deal worth $53.8 million in 2023, could become a free agent next season due to a player option in his contract. While he's all set to earn $14.8 million in the 2026-27 season, offers up to $30 million could tempt him to test the market.
During his time with the LA Lakers, Reaves has shown significant growth in his game. He played 61 and 64 games in his first two seasons, the former Oklahoma standout suited up for all 82 games in 2023-24.
In the last season, he started a career-high 73 games, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, his career-best performance. But his numbers dipped during the playoffs as the Lakers were eliminated in the first round.
Considered as a long-term partner to Luka Doncic, there are expectations that Reaves will stay in Los Angeles. However, with guard's significant improvement, he could draw others if he chooses to leave in 2026.
Austin Reaves took a big step towards free agency after rejecting the initial contract offered by the Lakers in June. The side offered him a whooping $96 million contract over the next four years.
Senior NBA insider Chris Haynes explained the real intention behind Reaves' decision via X (Formerly Twitter), while revealing interest from rival executives.
"I will say this: there are a lot of rival executives who hold Austin Reaves in high regard, and so I think he’s gotten wind of that," Haynes said. "I think his representation has gotten a wind of that, and that’s why they feel like they had to make a decision.
"I think there is still a lot of room for him to grow, and looking at his growth pattern, he’s risen pretty quickly. It just shows you the work that he puts in."
Despite Reaves rejecting the extension, he is going to be an integral part of the Lakers this season.
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