Lakers weigh Reaves extension versus trade as payday looms

The Los Angeles Lakers must decide whether to lock in guard Austin Reaves long term or treat him as an asset to be moved after a surge of preseason production and with a potentially massive payday looming next summer. Reaves has carried his momentum from a 20.2 point regular season into the preseason, producing efficient outings alongside new teammate Deandre Ayton as the Lakers prepare to open the regular season next week while LeBron James begins a three to four week absence with sciatica.

Reaves averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists and 4.5 rebounds in 2024-25 and has looked sharper in exhibition play, posting multiple high-scoring games and averaging roughly 20 to 22 points in limited minutes through two preseason contests. Coaches and teammates have noted his improved quickness and finishing, and Ayton praised Reaves' creativity and freedom with the ball, saying he does not want to be in his way. Head coach JJ Redick highlighted Reaves' ability to draw fouls and compared some of his offensive craft to Jamal Crawford.

The wider stakes are financial as well as competitive. Reaves declined a four-year, $89.2 million extension last summer and can become an unrestricted free agent...