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Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport
While this summer will be marked by Luka Doncic’s extension for the Lakers, Austin Reaves is unlikely to emulate his colleague. He is due to become a free agent in 2026, but his case has divided the web over his future salary.
Recruiting a center, a winger and extending Luka Doncic at all costs: the Lakers have some important tasks for this summer. We hope for his sake that Rob Pelinka manages to get it all done, or else there will still be plenty of criticism of his work. But there’s also the case of Austin Reaves, which divides many people.
Reaves can sign an extension this summer too, with 4 years for $89 million, according to ESPN. A good way of rewarding the player, but the problem is that the salary isn’t enough, at least in the eyes of his agent. AR15 extended his contract with the Lakers on a “friendly” basis a few years ago, but he wants more in 2025.
Cornelian choice in sight for the Lakers
Except that the Angelinos can’t offer him more than that. For that to happen, Reaves would have to become a free agent in 2026, and then the Lakers could make a significant financial effort. According to early returns, Reaves would like to exceed 30 million a year to continue his adventure in Los Angeles… but that’s a lot of money.
A lot of money for a player who disappointed in the last playoffs. He’s capable of great things, but if he aspires to such a contract, he’ll have to do more than perform in the regular season. According to Marks, the trend is towards free agent status for 2026, which is bound to spark debate among fans.
Bobby Marks : “Reaves should bypass signing an extension and enter free agency in 2026. Declining the $14.9 million player option in 2026-27 would give him more financial options on a fresh contract with the Lakers.”
And this new contract will have to be assumed if it sees the light of day for the Lakers. For many fans, Reaves isn’t worth that much money when you look at his performance, so it will be essential to trade him before that decision. It’s unlikely that he’ll be ejected this summer, but a move before the February 2026 deadline shouldn’t be ruled out, especially if his performances are poor.
