Austin Reaves has reportedly turned down a maximum contract extension offer from the Los Angeles Lakers, a deal that would have paid him approximately $89.2 million over four years.
The decision suggests Reaves believes he can secure an even more lucrative deal shortly.
He is currently playing under a four-year, $54 million contract he signed in 2023, which at the time was the maximum the Lakers could offer given his restricted free agent status.
Reaves is set to become a free agent in 2026 and, based on his current trajectory, is expected to command a significantly larger contract.
He averaged 20.2 points per game this past season, further solidifying his value as a core contributor on the court.
Although the Lakers have shown no interest in trading Reaves, league insiders remain uncertain about his long-term fit with the franchise, particularly considering the presence of high-usage stars like LeBron James and potential additions such as Luka Doncic, with whom Reaves’ playing style might overlap.
Still, Reaves has expressed a strong desire to remain in Los Angeles for the long haul. Speaking with K8 News, he made clear how deeply he values being part of the Lakers organization and living in the city.
“I want to be in LA. I want to play my whole career in LA. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf,” Reaves said. “And obviously the Lakers are the best organization in basketball.”
His decision to decline the extension may not reflect a desire to leave but rather a calculated bet on his future worth.
Austin Reaves Turns Down Lakers' Four-Year, $89.2M Current Max Offer https://t.co/k63pqpnr0B
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 26, 2025
