The Los Angeles Lakers are in a rather interesting spot with their star, Austin Reaves. As the guard recently declined the four-year, $89.2 million extension offer from the team, his future after the next season has become largely uncertain. This degree of doubt could allow the New York Knicks to make improvements, with the two sides being linked in recent rumors.
This rumor was addressed by Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix, who spoke about what Reaves brings to the table as a guard who can create shots for himself. He said:
“I might look at a team like New York, that has Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, three-and-d types of guys. The Knicks under Mike Brown, looking to become more diverse offensively, maybe they’d be interested in something like that.”
Reaves has firmly expressed his desire to play out his career with the Lakers. But with the growing likelihood that the guard will reject his player option to test free agency next season, the franchise may not be able or willing to meet his demands.
It seems more likely that the Lakers would be willing to gauge interest in him in trade talks now instead of parting ways with him for nothing. In this regard, several teams have shown an interest.
With the Knicks in mind, we look at a potential trade package that could help both teams.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Mikal Bridges
New York Knicks Receive: Austin Reaves, Maxi Kleber
This trade offers significant short-term benefits for the Lakers, as well as the Knicks.
For the Lakers, the acquisition of Mikal Bridges would be immense in strengthening their wing depth and starting rotation. Bridges is one of the premier 3-and-D players in the league today. Coming off a tremendous season with the Knicks, he has established himself as a key role player on a winning team.
Last season, Bridges averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, while shooting 50.0% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range. With incredible defensive instincts, the forward also delivered some critical stops, especially in the postseason.
The Lakers’ current priority has been acquiring elite defenders to fortify their roster. With the addition of Marcus Smart, the Purple and Gold have managed to strengthen their backcourt rotation. Bridges’ addition would increase the team’s defensive prowess in the starting rotation while also increasing their perimeter shooting ability.
Acquiring Bridges is also in the Lakers’ interest as the forward is currently on an expiring contract. After a $24.9 million cap hit next season, Bridges will become a free agent. This aligns perfectly with the franchise’s plans of keeping a clear salary sheet for the 2026 offseason.
Meanwhile, the Knicks also gain a lot from completing this deal. With the addition of Austin Reaves and Maxi Kleber, New York adds significant depth to their overall roster.
With regards to Reaves, Mannix made an interesting point in noting the impact of Mike Brown’s arrival as the new head coach. In a new system, the Knicks may rely on a secondary guard who is also capable of creating shots, alongside Jalen Brunson.
Considering Reaves’ tremendous offensive upside and his average of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists from last season, he could thrive in such a system.
A team like the Knicks also allows Reaves to grow as a player. In a system where he could effectively become the legitimate third star, the 27-year-old could maximize his potential, helping New York stake their claim as the best in the East.
Along with Reaves, the Knicks would also acquire a savvy veteran big man in Kleber. While his impact is limited, especially since New York signed Guerschon Yabusele as well, his value lies in his expiring contract. This would help New York clear up cap space in the 2026 offseason.
The Knicks Don’t Need To Do This Trade
The Lakers may push for a trade to get the most out of Austin Reaves’ contract while they still have it, but the Knicks don’t need to make this trade.
As constructed, New York has addressed some key roster concerns with their latest offseason acquisitions. While their guard rotation could still use some work, the Knicks need not consider parting ways with Bridges in this trade.
While certain rumors have suggested that the forward will be on the trading block, the Knicks may prefer to include him in deals that address more pressing roster needs. Regarding Reaves, the Knicks could be better off playing the waiting game.
