Austin Reaves is set to enter free agency and is virtually certain to decline his $14.9 million player option, even if he intends to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Reports suggest he is seeking a salary in the vicinity of $30 million per year, a figure comparable to what Tyler Herro earns – a reasonable benchmark given their similar impact and roles on their respective teams.
If Reaves proves this season that he can be an elite scorer alongside Luka Doncic and elevate his performance in the playoffs, the Lakers would likely be willing to meet that price to retain him – and Reaves would presumably want to stay in Los Angeles.
On the other hand, if he struggles again in postseason play, the Lakers, who will have considerable cap flexibility, may reconsider whether committing that much money to him is the most efficient use of their resources.
Reaves has played 4 seasons for the Lakers. He has averaged 14.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.8 rebounds in 280 regular-season games.
Austin Reaves reportedly wants a contract worth the same as Tyler Herro’s, per @basketballtalk
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 13, 2025
“Reaves will be a free agent. There is zero chance he is picking up his $14.9 million player option, even if he plans to stay with the Lakers. Reaves reportedly wants to be paid in… pic.twitter.com/MVEM8Tlklw
