Austin Reaves could be headed for a big payday next summer, and the San Antonio Spurs are one of the teams already circling. According to a report from Anthony Irwin, the Lakers guard is expected to decline his player option and test free agency, where he could command $30 to $35 million per year.
“In all likelihood, Reaves will turn down his player option after this season and could command a contract in the ballpark of $30 to $35 million per year,” Irwin reported. “If/when Reaves opts out of his current contract, he’ll be an unrestricted free agent with plenty of interest. League sources say the San Antonio Spurs and other teams are keeping a close eye on Reaves’ free agency.”
The Lakers have Reaves on a steal right now. He’s due roughly $14 million over the next two seasons, including a $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 campaign. While extension talks are likely to happen throughout the season, he’s more likely to opt out and try his luck in free agency.
Reaves, 27, is a core member of the Lakers and a premium co-star next to Luka Doncic and LeBron James. In just four years, he’s ascended into a borderline All-Star in Los Angeles. Last season, he had a career year with averages of 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game on 46.0% shooting.
With Reaves expected to be a major player in the Lakers’ rotation next season, he wants to get paid, and that means a contract worth at least $30-$35 million per year. If the Lakers are unwilling or unable to meet those demands, he’ll take his talents elsewhere to truly maximize his earnings.
As a steady shooting guard who can shoot, handle the ball, and score at will, Reaves is an ideal target for many teams, and that includes the Spurs. With De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio already has some pieces to be competitive in the West, but the addition of Reaves can take them to another level.
With Fox running point, Victor dominating the inside, and Reaves stretching the floor with perimeter play, the Spurs would have a potent offensive unit capable of contending with the best teams in the league. They’d become an instant threat to Luka and the Lakers, as well as any other team in the West, and it’d set them up for years of contention.
For Reaves, staying in Los Angeles is preferable, but he’s going to leave if he feels he’s not valued appropriately. For a player at his level, $30-$35 million is reasonable, and the Spurs are just one of several teams that will consider a pursuit. If the Lakers want to keep him, they’ll have to pay up one way or another.
Reaves has already proven he can shine on the biggest stage, and now he’ll have the chance to cash in. Whether that’s in Los Angeles or with a team like the Spurs depends on how much the Lakers value him when it’s time to negotiate.
