Austin Reaves is making waves in the NBA and is poised to land a massive contract in the upcoming 2026 Free Agency. Currently earning a modest $13.9 million, Reaves is considered to have one of the best value deals among veteran players in the league. However, his next contract could see him earn anywhere between $35-$40 million annually, a significant jump from his current salary.
While the Los Angeles Lakers initially did not anticipate the high cost of re-signing Reaves, there is now speculation that they may consider trading him to acquire valuable assets or a proven superstar. Despite his compatibility with Luka Doncic, concerns have arisen due to their similar playing styles. As a result, trade rumors have once again surrounded the 27-year-old guard.
NBA writer Dan Favale recently proposed a mock trade that would send Reaves to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for assets like Isaiah Stewart, Ron Holland, and three first-round draft picks. This proposal has sparked mixed reactions among Lakers fans, with many expressing reluctance to part ways with Reaves unless they receive a perennial All-Star in return.
The Lakers’ fan base has been vocal about their support for Reaves, with some fans adamantly opposed to the idea of trading him. They believe that Reaves has the potential to become a cornerstone player for the team and are unwilling to entertain trade scenarios that do not offer significant value in return.
Despite the trade rumors swirling around Reaves, there is a strong argument for the Lakers to retain him for the remainder of the season. Reaves has proven to be a valuable asset alongside Doncic, showcasing similar skills to other successful backcourt duos in the league. His ability to share the playmaking load with Doncic has been a key factor in the Lakers’ success this season.
Looking ahead to the future, signing Reaves to a lucrative contract and then exploring trade options for elite players could be a more strategic move for the Lakers. By leveraging Reaves’ contract as a valuable asset, the team could potentially acquire a top-tier player if the Reaves-Doncic partnership fails to deliver deep playoff runs. This approach would position Reaves as a long-term asset rather than an expiring one, increasing his value in potential trade negotiations.
In conclusion, while trade rumors continue to swirl around Austin Reaves, there is a strong case for the Lakers to retain him for the time being. His chemistry with Luka Doncic and his potential for growth make him a valuable asset for the team. However, exploring trade options in the future could also present exciting opportunities for the Lakers to strengthen their roster. Ultimately, the decision on Reaves’ future will be a crucial one for the Lakers as they navigate the complexities of the NBA trade market.
