Austin Reaves is considered the main trade asset for the Los Angeles Lakers in their pursuit of a dominant big man.
Austin Reaves has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers throughout his career. Nonetheless, in the NBA, allegiances can shift quickly, particularly with stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially available for trade.
Anthony Irwin from ClutchPoints suggests that if trade discussions arise between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Lakers regarding the two-time MVP, Reaves’ name would certainly surface. The undrafted player has gained significant popularity in Los Angeles, but his increasing market value positions him as one of the Lakers’ top trade assets.
A Rising Star with a Cloudy Future
Reaves notably declined a four-year, $89.2 million deal from the Lakers earlier this offseason, opting to gamble on himself in free agency next summer. Should he forgo his $14.9 million option for the 2026-27 season, the 26-year-old would become an unrestricted free agent in 2026.
NBA commentator Jovan Buha recently estimated that Reaves could secure a contract worth approximately four years and $120 million — a substantial rise for a former undrafted player. His blend of efficient scoring and playmaking has made him one of the Lakers’ key contributors alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Trade Talks and Dilemmas Ahead
With LeBron approaching the latter part of his career, the Lakers’ management is focusing on a long-term strategy. Both Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic are seen as potential franchise faces in a post-LeBron setup.
Despite being under contract with the Bucks until the 2027-28 season, Antetokounmpo holds a significant player option that might allow him to enter unrestricted free agency, especially if the Bucks don’t perform well in the playoffs. Should that situation arise, Reaves could be a key piece in a trade deal, as his forthcoming contract would make salary-matching easier for the Bucks.
In the meantime, the Lakers only have a limited number of trade assets. Aside from Reaves, they possess a lone tradable first-round pick (either in 2031 or 2032) and a second-round pick in 2032. Their primary financial flexibility comes from expiring contracts, including LeBron’s $52.6 million deal.
The Bigger Picture
Other teams like the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat are also expected to jockey for position should Antetokounmpo seek a move from Milwaukee. The Lakers’ chances heavily depend on whether Giannis shows a willingness to commit long-term to Los Angeles.
Team president Rob Pelinka has indicated that the Lakers’ salary cap strategy is geared toward future adaptability, whether it’s to secure stars like Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokic. Presently, Reaves remains a valued member of the Lakers, appreciated by fans and teammates. However, as demonstrated repeatedly in the NBA, loyalty often falters in the face of advantageous opportunities. Should Antetokounmpo become available, the Lakers may have to weigh Reaves’ role in their future against the need for a superstar acquisition.
