Austin Reaves could be in line for a major payday next summer, with projections suggesting he may command $30 to $35 million annually on his next deal.
Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points reported that the Los Angeles Lakers guard is expected to decline his player option after the 2026-27 season, making him an unrestricted free agent with significant interest around the league.
League sources told the outlet that the San Antonio Spurs and other teams are monitoring his situation closely, viewing him as one of the most valuable perimeter playmakers potentially available.
Reaves, 27, has developed into a reliable two-way contributor since going undrafted in 2021. He signed a four-year, $53.8 million contract in 2023, a deal that now looks like one of the league’s best bargains given his production.
This past season, he averaged a career-high 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 45.9 percent from the field and 37.7 percent from beyond the arc.
Reaves has also proven effective in the postseason. Over three playoff runs with the Lakers, he has posted 16.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while playing nearly 37 minutes a night.
His versatility as a secondary ballhandler and floor spacer has made him a strong fit alongside stars, but his upward trajectory means he could command a leading role elsewhere.
The Spurs, armed with future cap flexibility and looking to build around Victor Wembanyama, are considered a potential suitor. Multiple teams are expected to have max-level space in 2026, giving Reaves leverage as he evaluates his options.
For the Lakers, retaining him will likely require navigating the luxury tax, particularly with Luka Doncic now on the roster alongside LeBron James. The front office will face tough decisions as it balances star salaries with depth.
