Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has garnered a lot of attention in the trade market owing to his potential departure in the offseason. While addressing this, Shannon Sharpe acknowledged how the Lakers would need to trade the guard to contend for the title on a recent episode of “Nightcap“. He said:
“The Lakers can only pay him so much. You’re gonna go somewhere and get a big payday anyway. You ain’t trying to stay with the Lakers when you get $200 million, and they can’t give you that.”
Sharpe acknowledged the potential contract demands the guard could have next summer, should he decide to opt out of his contract. But Sharpe was not disrespecting Reaves as a player in any capacity, as he added, “Yeah, he has improved every single year; he’s a hell of a player.”
However, the 56-year-old had a very clear approach to the situation. He expressed this when he said, “But those three guys are not gonna win anything. Now, I’m not saying you gotta package him, but they need a (traditional) big. He’s the only valuable piece that they have.”
Sharpe addressed and acknowledged a rather pressing concern among the Lakers’ fan base. While fans have been supportive of Reaves’ development and have formed a bond with the 27-year-old as he has risen through the ranks, it has become apparent that the Purple and Gold may need to trade him.
The next season will be the third in Reaves’ four-year, $53.8 million deal with the team. Considering that he is making roughly $14 million next season, it is apparent that he is being grossly underpaid for his actual value.
Reaves has delivered above and beyond his pay grade. With an average of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, the guard has looked like the Lakers’ third star on more than one occasion.
However, the Lakers simply may not have the cap space to absorb the 27-year-old if he decides to test free agency. With a potential demand of $30 million a year, the Purple and Gold will immediately face a situation where they may have to let him walk while getting nothing in return.
Thus, the organization finds itself in a bit of a bind. Given his current value in the market, Reaves could help facilitate a lot of major trades for the Lakers. With special consideration for the team’s need for a big man, any trade package involving the guard would allow the Purple and Gold to acquire a quality center to help their cause.
While there have been no genuine developments on the matter, Reaves’ agent has suggested that there are unexpected things in store. With considerations being made for LeBron James‘ potentially opting in for next season, the Lakers will look to create a roster to compete for a title right away.
