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January 15, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) moves the ball against the Miami Heat during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
NBA analysts will thoroughly discuss Luka Doncic’s future with the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James’ looming retirement decision this summer.
Additionally, considering Austin Reaves has been involved in trade rumors since the start of the 2024-25 season, the breakout star guard will undoubtedly appear in headlines in free agency.
Reaves recently received an update on his status with the Lakers entering the offseason.
"I don't think the Lakers will (trade Reaves)," The Athletic’s Jovan Buha said after Los Angeles’ season-ending loss. "As of my current intel, I don't think that's going to happen."
During the regular season, Reaves showed why he deserved the four-year, $54 million contract he signed in 2023.
The gritty 6-foot-5 guard didn’t disappoint when tasked with creating shots off the dribble, delivering in crunch time, and embracing a larger offensive role when the Lakers were short-handed.
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Reaves, who notched 30+ points on several occasions, averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per contest, shooting 46.0% from the field and 37.7% from three-point land.
Unfortunately, the Oklahoma product wasn’t as dynamic in the playoffs, averaging 16.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, shooting 41.1% from the field and 31.9% from downtown in the Lakers’ first-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Many have speculated that Reaves will be a trade chip this summer in a potential deal for an exceptional low-post threat.
However, according to Buha’s report, the Lakers will likely attempt to complete an offseason trade for a forward or center without including Reaves.
More NBA: Lakers could cut ties with $215 million ex-Mavericks star via blockbuster trade, per writer
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