Is Austin Reaves likely to sign an extension with the Lakers?
It's unlikely, as he could earn more as a free agent in 2026.
Yanuki
ARTICLE DETAIL
Austin Reaves: Lakers Future and Potential Pelicans Trade | Warriors vs. Jazz: Game Preview, Injuries, and How to Watch | Rasheer Fleming Shines in Career Night as Suns Beat Hornets | Carter Bryant's Impact on the San Antonio Spurs | Victor Wembanyama's MVP and DPOY Potential: A Deep Dive | Chicago Bulls vs. Sacramento Kings: Game Preview, Odds, and Predictions for March 8, 2026 | Luke Kennard's Impact on the Lakers: A Potential Playoff X-Factor | Luka Dončić Shines as Lakers Beat Pacers; His Improving Defense Goes Unnoticed | Lakers' Ayton Exits with Knee Injury, LeBron James Sore After Loss | Austin Reaves: Lakers Future and Potential Pelicans Trade | Warriors vs. Jazz: Game Preview, Injuries, and How to Watch | Rasheer Fleming Shines in Career Night as Suns Beat Hornets | Carter Bryant's Impact on the San Antonio Spurs | Victor Wembanyama's MVP and DPOY Potential: A Deep Dive | Chicago Bulls vs. Sacramento Kings: Game Preview, Odds, and Predictions for March 8, 2026 | Luke Kennard's Impact on the Lakers: A Potential Playoff X-Factor | Luka Dončić Shines as Lakers Beat Pacers; His Improving Defense Goes Unnoticed | Lakers' Ayton Exits with Knee Injury, LeBron James Sore After Loss
NBA / Pacific
Austin Reaves: Lakers Future and Potential Pelicans Trade
Austin Reaves' future with the Los Angeles Lakers is uncertain as he approaches free agency. Amidst contract extension talks, trade rumors have surfaced, linking him to the New Orleans Pelicans.
Key Insights
- NBA expert Brian Windhorst suspects Austin Reaves will be re-signed by the Lakers but notes the team's flexibility with other players.
- Reaves is eligible for a four-year, $89 million extension but could earn more as a free agent in 2026.
- Lakers beat reporter Jovan Buha suggests a trade involving Trey Murphy III could benefit both the Lakers and Pelicans.
- The Pelicans may be hesitant to trade Murphy, who recently signed a four-year, $113 million extension.
In-Depth Analysis
Austin Reaves has developed into a key offensive player for the Lakers, averaging a career-high 20.2 points and 5.8 assists in the 2024-25 season. However, with LeBron James' future uncertain, the Lakers may consider building around Luka Dončić, potentially making Reaves expendable.
A potential trade to the Pelicans could provide Reaves with a lead ball-handling role alongside Zion Williamson and Herb Jones. Meanwhile, the Lakers could acquire Trey Murphy III, a versatile 3-and-D wing who fits their defensive profile.
However, the Pelicans value Murphy highly and would likely demand significant compensation in return. The Lakers also face a potential cap crunch, as Reaves could command a $40+ million annual salary in free agency, &ref=yanuki.com which they may be unwilling to match.
FAQ
What is Trey Murphy III's value to the Pelicans?
The Pelicans have placed an exceptionally high asking price on him, seeking multiple first-round picks and young talent.
Takeaways
- Austin Reaves' future with the Lakers is uncertain due to his contract situation and the team's long-term plans. A trade to the Pelicans could provide him with a more prominent role, but the Lakers would need to acquire a valuable asset in return, such as Trey Murphy III. The Lakers are facing a salary cap squeeze and must decide whether to invest heavily in Reaves or explore other options.
Discussion
Do you think Austin Reaves will stay with the Lakers, or will he be traded to the Pelicans? Let us know! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources
Disclaimer
This article was compiled by Yanuki using publicly available data and trending information. The content may summarize or reference third-party sources that have not been independently verified. While we aim to provide timely and accurate insights, the information presented may be incomplete or outdated.
All content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Yanuki makes no representations or warranties regarding the reliability or completeness of the information.
This article may include links to external sources for further context. These links are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement.
Always do your own research (DYOR) before making any decisions based on the information presented.