In an era where NBA players frequently switch teams in search of titles, money, or better situations, Austin Reaves is sounding like a throwback. The Los Angeles Lakers guard made his stance clear this week: he wants to be a Laker for life.
Speaking at his basketball camp in Arkansas, Reaves opened up about his future while fielding questions from K8 News reporter Charles McCary. With trade rumors and contract speculation swirling around him, the 26-year-old didn’t mince words.
“I think the sky’s the limit for us. We’re moving in the right direction. Obviously, adding Luka, it gives you a hall of fame player such a young age that you can build around, and then obviously, still having Bron, the IQ, and still running around at forty years old, but I want to be in LA.”
“I want to play my whole career in LA. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball. I don’t pay attention to it. I keep my head down work, and I feel like that’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at.”
The timing of this message is no coincidence. Reaves is coming off the best season of his young career, averaging 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 46.0% from the field and nearly 38% from three.
He started all 73 games he appeared in, solidifying himself as the Lakers’ third scoring option behind Doncic and LeBron James.
However, he’s also entering a potentially transformative phase in his career. Though eligible for an $89.2 million extension this summer, Reaves is widely expected to bet on himself by declining the offer and testing free agency in 2026. League insiders expect his next contract to be well north of $30 million annually, the going rate for top-tier guards.
Complicating matters further is the fact that his name has started to swirl in trade rumors. While the Lakers aren’t expected to move Reaves unless it’s for a star in return, some insiders have floated a possible trade involving the Utah Jazz. Still, Reaves’ camp remains bullish. His agent reportedly sent a strong message around the league.
For Lakers fans, Reaves’ comments bring comfort. But his future in purple and gold is far from guaranteed. While he’s not expected to be traded unless a star is involved in return, his fit alongside Luka Doncic has sparked real debate.
Both players are offensive-minded with low defensive impact, and that combination proved vulnerable during L.A.’s first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. If the Lakers pursue a more balanced lineup, Reaves could become a casualty of roster reshaping.
Still, the Lakers have been protective of their undrafted gem. The franchise developed Reaves, watched him shine on the biggest stage, and has every incentive to retain him. He’s become a fan favorite not just because of his production, but because of his gritty play style, his connection to the city, and now, his public loyalty.
Whether or not the Lakers view him as a long-term piece next to Luka remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Austin Reaves doesn’t want to go anywhere.
The Lakers may be preparing for another blockbuster summer, but Reaves’ heart is already in Hollywood. Now it’s up to the front office to decide whether to match that loyalty with a long-term investment.
