Breaking Down Lakers’ Austin Reaves Contract Situation
Austin Reaves has quickly become one of the Los Angeles Lakers’ most promising young players, showing growth, versatility, and poise beyond his years. After going undrafted in 2021, Reaves signed a two-way contract with the Lakers, eventually earning a standard NBA deal. His rise has been nothing short of impressive, culminating in a breakout 2022–23 season that saw him average over 13 points per game and become a key contributor during the Lakers’ playoff run.
In the summer of 2023, the Lakers faced a crucial decision regarding Reaves, who entered restricted free agency. Ultimately, they retained him on a four-year, $53.8 million contract, matching an offer sheet he received from the San Antonio Spurs. The deal is widely regarded as a team-friendly one given Reaves’ continued development and projected ceiling.
The structure of Reaves’ contract includes ascending salaries with a player option in the fourth year. This gives Reaves some control over his future, while allowing the Lakers to retain a rising star at a manageable cost. His contract also includes bonuses and incentives that reflect his growing role.
Financially, the Reaves deal fits well into the Lakers’ long-term planning. With big contracts tied up in stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, getting strong production from a mid-level contract like Reaves’ is a win. Moreover, his versatility—capable of handling the ball, creating shots, and defending multiple positions—makes him a valuable piece in various lineup combinations.
In short, the Lakers made a smart investment in Reaves, betting on continued growth while preserving financial flexibility. If his trajectory continues, this deal could become one of the league’s best values, solidifying Reaves as a core part of the Lakers’ present and future.
