Despite the NBA Playoffs still being underway, the offseason has already begun for the other 28 teams. The Los Angeles Lakers, coming off a disappointing first-round loss to the Nuggets, are aiming to strengthen their roster for a deeper postseason run next year.
A key part of their strategy includes finding a new head coach and making crucial decisions about key players. While retaining LeBron James is a top priority, shaping the roster around James and Anthony Davis is equally important for the Lakers’ immediate goals.
One pivotal player in this context is Austin Reaves. The 26-year-old combo guard is on a team-friendly contract, averaging $13.4 million per year over the next two seasons. This makes him an appealing trade asset if the Lakers decide to pursue a third star via trade.
However, the Lakers appear intent on keeping Reaves. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, Los Angeles is firm in their decision not to include him in trade discussions.
“The Lakers would also prefer to keep Austin Reaves, according to team and league sources. They refrained from including him in trade talks for Murray at the 2024 trade deadline and Kyrie Irving at the 2023 trade deadline. Reaves’ playoff performances in 2023 and 2024 have affirmed his fit around James and Davis,” reported Buha.
Though Reaves was rumored to be part of trade talks during the season, no deals were made. Reports indicated that the Lakers were not willing to trade him for Dejounte Murray or Kyrie Irving, and this stance appears unchanged.
Reaves, a 6’5″ guard, played every game for the Lakers in the 2023-24 season. While he didn’t have the breakout season some fans hoped for, he remains a strong third option and a reliable playmaker offensively.
The Lakers might be better off trading players like Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, or Jarred Vanderbilt along with the three first-round picks they can offer this summer. This strategy could help them acquire multiple quality starters to complement their core trio of James, Davis, and Reaves.
