The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a complicated position regarding their young star, Austin Reaves. The guard is due to sign a contract extension in next year’s offseason. However, given current CBA guidelines, the team can only offer him a maximum of $82.9 million over four years.
Considering the value the young guard has brought to the team, it is safe to say that he would be underpaid. In light of this, Reaves could consider opting out of his contract and testing free agency, as the 26-year-old could be in line for a max contract worth $42.5 million a year.
While this would prove to be a sweet deal for the Lakers guard, there are some concerns that the front office will have to deal with before extending or even entertaining such an offer.
Austin Reaves has been one of the most vital players on the Lakers’ roster for the better part of the last two seasons. In this short period, the guard has transformed into one of the best “third” options in the league.
Although some would categorize Reaves as a role player, the Lakers fanbase tends to view him as their third star. Considering his averages of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists on 46% shooting this season, it is safe to say that the 26-year-old rightfully earns the title.
Reaves has been invaluable to the team. Before the acquisition of Luka Doncic, the guard was responsible for running counterpoint to LeBron James and facilitating the offense in the star’s absence. His ability to jumpstart an offense is one of the most impressive qualities and a contributing factor to the Lakers’ 50-win season.
While the guard was a solid performer in the regular season, he didn’t have such a great outing in the postseason. The first-round matchup against the Timberwolves displayed some of the worst parts of Reaves as he recorded multiple poor outings and ended the series with an average of 16.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 41% shooting.
Reaves acknowledged his poor performances throughout the series during the final press conference. On this note, it was later revealed that he was playing with a big toe injury, which could explain the drop-off in productivity to some extent.
However, these are things that the Lakers very seriously need to take into consideration moving forward. The Purple and Gold have outlined a very meticulous plan for the offseason. With an emphasis on acquiring a big man and fortifying perimeter defense and wing depth, it is clear that the team requires length on the roster.
In light of this, Reaves suddenly looks less like a key roster player and more like a trade chip to ensure the team acquires the right assets. The Lakers guard has already been mentioned in trade packages, some even involving Giannis Antetokounmpo.
As things stand, the Lakers guard shows a lot of potential for being a franchise cornerstone in the post-LeBron era. A backcourt duo featuring him and Luka Doncic would pose a nightmare for most defensive units.
However, the decision ultimately comes down to what direction the Lakers intend to head in. If LeBron James is to take a pay cut after opting out of his contract next season, the Lakers may very well have the flexibility to pay Reaves what he’ll be owed as a free agent.
Much of this part of the conversation may hinge on Reaves’ performance next season. With the Purple and Gold prioritizing getting in “championship shape”, the Lakers may see quite a few personnel changes before heading into training camp.
