Lakers News: Cap Experts Project Big Payday For Austin Reaves
Few Lakers have consistently come in and produced off of the bench like Austin Reaves has this season. On a team that has been very inconsistent and saw a complete roster change at the trade deadline, Reaves has been one of the only guys to maintain a level of composure and a winning mentality.
It's super easy to forget that the 6'5 guard went un-drafted in 2021 and initially signed a deal with LA that saw him bounce between the official team and the G-league. However, he has shown vast improvement from his rookie season and has risen to every challenge that comes with playing next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
He is currently averaging about 12 points and two assists while averaging close to 40 percent from downtown. While these are not eye-popping numbers, all Lakers fans know how important Reaves has been to almost all of our wins this year. He makes plays that don't show up on stat sheets and is not scared to perform in the clutch.
Many fans have compared his play style and role to that of former Laker Alex Caruso and Reaves does not understand why. However, I feel like it's a mutual understanding among everybody that the Lakers' front office should learn from letting Caruso leave in free agency and pay Reaves the money he deserves.
The former Oklahoma guard is set to be paid after this season and insiders from Spotrac have projected him to get a deal worth around $60 million.
"We used $80 million as our example to explain the Arenas Provision, but that’s probably a little rich for Austin Reaves. But could an average salary of $15 million, for a total of $60 million, be in play? We’ve seen shooters get paid handsomely in the past. Shooters who can do a little more? Those guys always get paid."
(Per Spotrac)
Reaves has certainly proven during his first two years in the league that he is capable of shooting three's off of the catch but also being able to create his own shot. If he works on his handles this summer, his offensive potential will be through the roof.
The Lakers have either traded very talented players in the past or let them walk for free. I think Reaves is the gem they should hold on to, even if it's for $60 million.
Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!
