Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is becoming a focal point not only for his impressive on-court performances but also for the massive financial potential he could unlock in the near future. According to NBA sources, Reaves, whose current contract is considered one of the best value deals in the league, could command a salary several times higher when he becomes a free agent in 2026.
Journey from Undrafted to Lakers’ Key Player
Austin Reaves joined the Lakers in 2021 as an undrafted rookie. Starting with a two-way contract, he quickly proved his worth, becoming a candidate for Sixth Man of the Year and now a key starter in the team’s lineup. In the 2024-25 season, Reaves averaged 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game over 73 games, with a career-high 45-point performance against the Indiana Pacers on February 8, 2025.
However, Reaves’ playoff performance fell short of expectations, averaging just 16.2 points on 41.1% field goal shooting and 31.9% from three-point range in a 1-4 series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. It was later revealed that he played through a left toe injury, but this did not diminish his value in the eyes of other teams.
Current Contract: A Bargain for the Lakers
Reaves is currently playing under a four-year, $53 million contract signed in 2023, with an average annual salary of about $13 million. This is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s most valuable contracts, especially given his on-court production. However, with the contract set to expire in 2026, Reaves has the option to decline an extension and test the open market, where he is projected to receive “massive” offers.
According to ESPN analysis, the Lakers can currently offer Reaves a four-year extension worth $89.2 million due to Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) restrictions. However, if Reaves opts out and becomes an unrestricted free agent (UFA) in 2026, he could command a contract with a starting salary of up to $42.5 million per year, equating to a total contract value well exceeding $100 million.
Why Reaves Could Command a “Shocking” Salary
Several factors make Reaves a prime target on the open market:
Elite Performance: With his scoring, playmaking, and ball-handling skills, Reaves is considered among the top 50, if not top 40, players in the NBA today. He has proven to be an indispensable part of the Lakers’ core alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Ideal Age: At 26, Reaves is entering the prime of his career, making him an attractive long-term investment for teams.
Attractive Current Contract: With his relatively low current salary, Reaves is an ideal trade asset, but if not extended, he will be a top target for multiple teams in 2026.
Market Demand: As one of the few top-tier guards in their prime hitting free agency, Reaves will draw intense competition from teams willing to spend big to secure his services.
Lakers at a Crossroads
The Lakers now face a challenging decision. If they cannot extend Reaves’ contract before 2026, they risk losing him for nothing in return. Another option is to trade Reaves this summer to capitalize on his high trade value, potentially bringing in a quality center—a position of need for the Lakers after being dominated by the Timberwolves in the playoffs.
However, the Lakers highly value Reaves. According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, General Manager Rob Pelinka views Reaves as one of the team’s three “pillars” alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Retaining Reaves not only bolsters the team’s roster but also resonates with fans who adore him, often referring to him as “Hillbilly Kobe.”
Reaves’ Future
Whether the Lakers choose to keep or trade Reaves, it’s clear that the 26-year-old guard is on the cusp of a life-changing opportunity with a potential contract worth hundreds of millions of dollars. With his talent, work ethic, and ability to shine in clutch moments, Reaves is not only a cornerstone for the Lakers but also a name to watch across the NBA.
The 2026 free agency market promises to be a stage for Reaves to showcase his true worth. Will he remain in the purple and gold or seek a new home with a “shocking” salary? Only time will tell.