Lakers’ $241 million Austin Reaves contract update pushes 22-time All-Star to back burner

Preparations for a monumental 2026 free agency period have likely already begun for the Los Angeles Lakers.

After an explosive opening to his 5th NBA campaign (averaged 29.3 points, 6.8 assists through first 19 games), Austin Reaves set himself up nicely for a massive summer payday if he declines his player option, a scenario that appears inevitable.

Named an All-Star for an NBA record 22nd time, Los Angeles' 41-year-old 4-time MVP LeBron James is also set to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent amidst constant rumors of retirement or a potential departure.

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka has a few tricky decisions to make this offseason, but Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes expressed confidence in his assumption that Reaves' hopeful return is much more pressing matter than that of the arguable greatest player to ever hit the hardwood. However, Reaves' price tag could trigger a tinge of worry for a franchise itching to pair Luka Dončić with star-level talent and impact players at fair market value.

"Austin Reaves is the Los Angeles Lakers' most important free agent, which means something considering LeBron James is also on the current roster," Hughes wrote.

"Reaves can ink a new deal with the Lakers for up to five years and $241 million. Other teams will be capped at four years and $179 million."

"Odds are, Reaves will be back with the Lakers, even if the thought of paying max-level cash to an offense-first guard who'll always be a second option next to Dončić is a little concerning."

Though it may be tough to accept, Reaves is a much more valuable asset than James at this stage of their respective careers.

The former is just entering his prime at 27 years old and appears ready to break through as a clear-cut All-Star sooner rather than later. James, on the other hand, has seen his productivity take a slight decline (21.3 points, 7.0 assists) as more of an off-ball threat next to the league's leading scorer in Dončić (32.8 points, 61.3% true shooting). 

Los Angeles potentially bringing Reaves back on what could be a deal exceeding $240 million over five years may also be a tough pill to swallow for Pelinka, but it's imperative for them to secure a proven scoring and play-making second-option in the backcourt.

Dončić has thrived next to both offensive-minded guards and lob threat centers, and the Lakers could look to lock down one piece of that puzzle for the long-term at James' expense.

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