Lakers Could Consider Trading Austin Reaves Under One Condition, Says Insider

Mar 10, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) warms up before a game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is set to become a free agent next summer, and the franchise will have a tough decision on its hands regarding his future.

Reaves is part of the Lakers' core, serving as the third option on the team behind LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

The undrafted guard has broken through the NBA and established himself as a top offensive guard, though his questionable fit alongside Doncic makes his outlook on the Lakers unclear.

More news: Top 3 Lakers Likely to Be Traded This Season

Reaves has a player option for the 2026-2027 season, but it is worth well below his market value. He will certainly opt out of his deal, seeking a bigger salary and multiple years.

According to Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points, the Lakers are facing a tough decision, as the team could lose Reaves for nothing if they do not trade him or re-sign him.

"Seeing as LA could potentially lose Reaves for nothing, they'd be remiss not to consider trading him at some point this season, especially if it becomes clear he and Doncic's athleticism concerns are too much to overcome in pursuit of a championship," Irwin wrote in a story.

"The Lakers quickly cut any talks for Reaves short this summer and would only consider trading him unless he was part of the package for a bona fide star.

"That won't stop teams from asking about him this season and, if for any reason those questions about Reaves and Doncic linger, LA will have to take those requests more seriously."

More news: Lakers Insider Provides Major Update on Andrew Wiggins Trade

Last season, the four-year guard averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. He shot 37.7 percent from deep and 54.7 percent from the field.

As a player, Reaves can create his own offense through crafty drives and shot creation, all while getting other players involved. For a player of his size, he defends solidly, but remains limited.

Doncic, meanwhile, also demands the ball on offense and offers a lack of defensive presence.

Having two defensively exploitable players in the starting backcourt is tricky to build around. If Reaves has another impressive offensive season, the Lakers may deem the shot-making firepower too much to move on from.

For more news and notes on the Los Angeles Lakers, visit Los Angeles Lakers on SI.