Did Austin Reaves Just Outplay His Own Contract? Lakers Star Declines Max Extension — What’s He Planning Next?
LOS ANGELES, CA — In a bold move that has fans and NBA insiders buzzing, Austin Reaves has officially declined a max contract extension offer from the Los Angeles Lakers, setting the stage for what could be a lucrative free agency next summer.
The news, first reported by The Athletic, highlights a calculated gamble by the 26-year-old guard, who appears confident that his value will only continue to rise.
💰 Betting on Himself
Reaves, entering the third year of a four-year, $54 million contract he signed as a restricted free agent in 2023, had the opportunity to lock in a new max extension with the Lakers this summer. But according to league sources, Reaves turned it down — not because of dissatisfaction, but because he knows he’s poised for a much bigger payday.
The reality? Due to CBA restrictions, the Lakers were limited in what they could offer this offseason, regardless of Reaves’ on-court performance. But next summer, should Reaves opt out of his current deal, he’ll enter unrestricted free agency, where rival teams can throw significantly larger offers his way.
🏀 The Rise of Reaves
Since going undrafted in 2021, Reaves has been one of the NBA’s best underdog success stories. His gritty two-way play, high basketball IQ, and ability to thrive under pressure have made him an essential piece of the Lakers’ rotation.
2023-24 season highlights:
✔️ 15.9 PPG
✔️ 4.7 APG
✔️ 39.8% 3PT shooting
✔️ Countless clutch playoff performances
His on-court chemistry with stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis has only amplified his importance to the franchise.
🗣️ What the Experts Are Saying
Shams Charania (The Athletic):
“Reaves is aware of his value. By declining the extension now, he’s positioning himself to test an open market that will almost certainly offer more than what the Lakers could legally commit this summer.”
Brian Windhorst (ESPN):
“It’s not necessarily a sign that Reaves wants to leave L.A., but it does mean the Lakers may have to fight harder — and pay more — to keep him next summer.”
🔮 What’s Next for Reaves and the Lakers?
Reaves’ decision doesn’t mean he’s leaving — at least not yet. The Lakers still have his Bird Rights, giving them the ability to exceed the cap to re-sign him next offseason.
But other teams with cap space and a need for a reliable, high-IQ guard will be watching closely. Already, franchises like the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and Utah Jazz have been floated as potential suitors.
For now, Reaves remains under contract for the 2024-25 season, where he’ll continue to showcase why he could be one of the most coveted players on the market in 2025.
