While the Lakers inked Luka Dončić to an extension this summer, it could have been an even bigger offseason for the franchise in that front. Coming off a career year, Austin Reaves was also extension eligible this summer.
However, due to limitations in the CBA on how much they could offer, Reaves turned down the maximum offer
, setting himself up for unrestricted free agency next summer, presuming he opts out of his deal.This wasn’t a shocking move. Reaves reportedly wants to earn $30 million annually
in his next contract and the Lakers couldn’t offer those kinds of numbers. They reportedly presented Reaves with the maximum amount they could offer at $89.2 million over the next four seasons.
During media day on Monday, Reaves discussed how difficult it was to turn down the deal and reiterated that he still aspired to be a Laker for years to come.
“It’s super hard,” Reaves said in an interview with ESPN LA. “If you would have told me even three years ago that I was going to have the opportunity to make that money, then I would have jumped on it in a heartbeat. But it’s a business at the end of the day. That doesn’t mean that I don’t want to be in LA. I want to be in LA for my whole career and hopefully we can make that happen.”
Reaves has grown a lot since joining the Lakers as a rookie. Now, he’s betting on himself and is certain it will go his way if he takes care of business.
The Lakers clearly like Reaves and want him to remain in Los Angeles. Despite declining the contract, the two sides seem motivated to agree to a new deal next summer.
Still, Reaves will effectively enter a contract year and a lot can change in a season. He has to bring his best game this year and show the Lakers and all other suitors that he’s worth more money.
Given how Reaves has continued to rise every season, that seems like a foregone conclusion.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
