If the Los Angeles Lakers want to make a big splash this summer, they don’t have a ton of trade chips to play with—and that’s what’s kept Austin Reaves at the center of offseason speculation.
Reaves, 26, wasn’t at his best during the team’s first-round exit to the Timberwolves. That’s led to questions about whether the Lakers might move on from the undrafted guard-turned-starter. But according to Los Angeles Times insider Dan Woike, the people who matter most inside the Lakers organization have no interest in dealing him away.
“The Lakers and the most important people in the organization all love Reaves,” Woike reported, “and his journey from undrafted free agent to a talent that people think is All-Star caliber.” He also noted that Reaves was quietly battling through a “serious toe sprain” during the series, an injury that didn’t require surgery but did affect his performance.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77), forward LeBron James (23), and guard Austin Reaves (15).
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77), forward LeBron James (23), and guard Austin Reaves (15).
Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
For now, it seems the Lakers still view Reaves as part of their core—not trade bait.
Last season, Reaves averaged 20.2 points per game and shot 37.7% from three. He’s also one of the best values in the league, set to make just $14 million next season. Unless an undeniable upgrade presents itself, it’s clear the Lakers plan to keep riding with one of their most reliable—and cost-effective—pieces.
The Lakers now will likely look to add a center this offseason to compliment Doncic, James, and Reaves. The Lakers were eliminated by the Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs after a resurgent final end to the season since the acquisition of Doncic. The team from LA will rework their roster in hopes of getting over the hump.