Austin Reaves Shines Amidst Lakers' Injuries

In a season of uncertainty for the Los Angeles Lakers, Austin Reaves continues to be a beacon of hope. Following a standout performance where he scored 28 points and recorded a career-high 16 assists in a thrilling finish against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Reaves is raising questions about his future with the team.

The Trade Dilemma

As Reaves enjoys a scorching start to the season, the Lakers face an uncomfortable decision: should they consider trading him while his stock is high, or integrate him into their long-term plans? With Reaves' current play keeping the Lakers competitive during LeBron James' absence, the ramifications of either choice are significant.

Reaves holds a player option worth $14.9 million for the 2026-27 season, which experts predict he will decline, aiming for a higher-value contract in free agency. The Lakers will have to weigh the prospect of offering him a hefty package, which could exceed $40 million annually, against their aspirations to acquire bigger stars in the future.

Evaluating Trade Options

If the Lakers decide to trade Reaves, they have several potential pathways. They could use him as the centerpiece in a trade for another star, assemble a future-focused package featuring first-round picks, or flip him for a combination of role players and assets that bolster the current team.

Potential suitors for Reaves include teams that are in desperate need of scoring and playmaking. For instance, the Dallas Mavericks may see Reaves as a desired addition, especially if Kyrie Irving remains sidelined. The Mavericks have young talents and draft picks to offer in exchange, making them a serious contender for his services.

The Detroit Pistons and the Houston Rockets also emerge as intriguing trades partners, with each holding valuable assets they could deal. Whether or not these teams will align on a fair trade remains to be seen, as the trade landscape evolves on the horizon.

What Lies Ahead for Reaves and the Lakers

As the Lakers continue their season, their health and performance will dictate how they should approach Raevs’ situation. They face a critical decision as the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches, needing to balance immediate competitiveness against long-term strategy. Should they decide to keep Reaves, they might be better off letting him walk in free agency—though this carries the risk of losing him without compensation.

Ultimately, the Lakers' path hinges on their view of Reaves not just as a player, but as a potential cornerstone of their franchise in the years to come.