For the past few seasons, the Los Angeles Lakers have enjoyed one of the league’s greatest roster luxuries: Austin Reaves on a team-friendly contract. His production has far outweighed his paycheck, giving the front office breathing room as they’ve attempted to build a contender around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. But that bargain is nearing its end — and when the summer of 2026 arrives, Austin Reaves will be in line for a massive payday.
Austin Reaves is currently in the third year of a four-year, $53.8 million extension. He’ll earn $13.9 million this coming season, with a $14.9 million player option for 2026–27. But make no mistake — that option is as good as gone. At 27 years old and firmly in his prime, Reaves will be looking to secure a contract that better reflects his value.
The Lakers already tested the waters by offering a four-year, $89.2 million extension, averaging just over $22 million per year. Reaves turned it down, and understandably so. Around the league, guards of his caliber are earning salaries in the low-to-mid $30 million range annually, and if his development continues, he could push into the high 30s. Accepting anything less would mean leaving tens of millions of dollars on the table.
Having a player outperform his contract is an enormous advantage in today’s NBA. Golden State famously benefited from Stephen Curry’s bargain deal during his early MVP years, which allowed them to add Kevin Durant without crippling their cap sheet. The Lakers, in their own way, have enjoyed a similar edge with Reaves. His ability to create off the dribble, space the floor, and playmake has often come at the cost of a role player’s salary.
But soon, that advantage will flip. The Lakers won’t be able to pay him like a role player anymore — and they know it. Letting Reaves walk in free agency would be catastrophic. Instead, they’ll have to dig deep, likely offering a deal in the $30–35 million per year range. As insider Jovan Buha recently noted, Reaves belongs in that salary tier and could earn even more if he continues to raise his game.
For Reaves, the decision is simple: keep producing and set himself up for life-changing money. For the Lakers, the challenge is more complex: retain him at all costs while still maintaining flexibility to build a contender.
Either way, one thing is certain — Austin Reaves won’t be a bargain for much longer.
