REPORT: Austin Reaves Expected to Opt Out of Player Option Next Summer, Positioning Himself for Massive Payday—Eligible for 5-Year, $246M Max Contract with Lakers or 4-Year, $183M Deal from Rival Teams
Austin Reaves has steadily transformed from an undrafted rookie to one of the most promising young guards in the NBA. Now, his journey from overlooked to overachiever has placed him on the precipice of a monumental financial breakthrough. According to recent reports, Reaves is expected to opt out of his player option next summer, opening the door to a massive long-term payday that could reshape his future in the league. The Los Angeles Lakers will be eligible to offer him a five-year, \$246 million max contract, while any other interested team would be limited to a four-year, \$183 million deal. It’s the kind of dramatic leap that not only underscores Reaves’ growing importance on the court but also highlights the increasing recognition of his role within one of the NBA’s most scrutinized franchises.
The timing of this potential contract development is crucial for both Reaves and the Lakers. As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Lakers’ front office faces a series of high-stakes decisions regarding their long-term core. LeBron James’ recent decision to opt into his \$52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season has bought the Lakers some time, but the franchise remains in a delicate position. Reaves’ value to the organization continues to rise—not just because of his skillset, but also due to his chemistry with LeBron, his clutch performances, and his unique ability to shift between roles as a secondary ball-handler, spot-up shooter, and perimeter defender. He’s not just another role player anymore; he’s becoming a centerpiece of the Lakers’ future blueprint.
Reaves averaged 15.9 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game during the 2024–25 campaign, establishing himself as a dependable offensive option and consistent contributor under pressure. His efficiency remained strong, as he shot over 48% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc. In a season riddled with injuries and inconsistency across the Lakers’ roster, Reaves often stepped into larger responsibilities and delivered with veteran-like poise. He flourished in late-game situations, showed growth as a facilitator, and proved capable of defending some of the league’s top guards. That kind of versatility is not easily replaceable, and it’s a key reason why his market value has skyrocketed.
The financial implications of Reaves’ potential new deal are massive. If he chooses to stay with the Lakers, he could secure the full five-year max contract worth \$246 million. That not only sets him up as one of the highest-paid guards in the league but also signals the Lakers’ intent to treat him as a foundational piece moving forward. If he opts for free agency and decides to leave, the most any other team can offer is a four-year, \$183 million deal—still a huge number, but one that highlights the inherent advantage the Lakers possess by holding his Bird rights. This financial edge may ultimately prove decisive, especially if Reaves continues to enjoy his role in L.A. and believes in the team’s long-term vision.
Still, the decision may not be purely financial. Reaves has publicly expressed his appreciation for playing with the Lakers and has built strong relationships with teammates and fans alike. Yet loyalty in the NBA is a double-edged sword, especially when weighed against opportunities for greater responsibility, personal branding, and championship aspirations. If another franchise offers Reaves a starring role—something even bigger than what he currently enjoys with the Lakers—it’s not out of the question for him to consider a move. The question becomes whether he values continuity and organizational fit over the chance to elevate his individual profile in a different market.
Reaves’ rise to stardom hasn’t been meteoric in the traditional sense. He worked his way up the hard way, grinding through college ball at Wichita State and Oklahoma before entering the NBA undrafted in 2021. He signed a two-way contract with the Lakers that quickly turned into a standard NBA deal after he showed flashes of brilliance early in his rookie season. Since then, he’s only grown more confident and effective, earning the trust of coaching staffs and veterans alike. His work ethic, high basketball IQ, and team-first mentality have drawn praise from figures throughout the league. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t just put up stats—he impacts winning, and executives across the NBA are taking notice.
With the salary cap expected to rise in coming years, Reaves’ potential payday may not even be the high-water mark. The NBA’s new media rights deal, along with post-pandemic revenue recovery, is setting the stage for a financial explosion. That’s another reason why locking up Reaves now—or preparing to match a potential offer sheet—makes sense for the Lakers. If they hesitate or lowball him, they risk losing a fan favorite and emerging star just as he’s entering his prime. It’s a scenario that’s played out before with other homegrown talents across the league, and the Lakers surely don’t want to repeat that mistake.
There’s also the matter of fit. Reaves has proven to be a perfect complement to the Lakers’ stars. His off-ball movement allows him to thrive next to ball-dominant players like LeBron James, while his playmaking makes him a natural option to run secondary units when LeBron rests. He’s shown synergy with Anthony Davis in pick-and-roll actions and doesn’t demand high usage to be effective. That kind of malleability is a rare and valuable asset in today’s NBA, where many talented guards struggle to adapt to multiple roles. Reaves does it seamlessly, and that flexibility only increases his appeal—both to the Lakers and to potential suitors.
Off the court, Reaves has also started to build a brand. His humble beginnings and scrappy style of play have endeared him to fans, while his marketability has increased thanks to his work ethic and clean-cut image. In Los Angeles, he’s already been featured in multiple sponsorship campaigns and has a growing social media presence. A long-term contract in one of the world’s biggest entertainment markets could launch him into a new tier of stardom. The Lakers have historically been a springboard for players to become icons—not just athletes, but celebrities. If Reaves stays, that platform remains his to use.
Still, the Lakers must tread carefully. Committing nearly \$250 million to a guard who’s had only a few seasons of top-level production is not without risk. There will be pressure from some quarters to use that money elsewhere, especially if the team fails to make a deep playoff run next year. The front office will need to weigh Reaves’ projected growth against other potential targets in free agency or trade markets. But in a league where two-way guards are at a premium and continuity is rare, locking in a player like Reaves could be a wise long-term investment.
Meanwhile, other teams are undoubtedly watching the situation closely. Franchises with cap space in 2025 and a need at shooting guard will line up to make their pitch if Reaves enters the open market. Teams like the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, or even the Philadelphia 76ers could make compelling cases—offering Reaves a larger offensive role, younger rosters built for the future, and a chance to be the face of a franchise. His representatives will explore every option, but ultimately the Lakers will have the final word thanks to their ability to offer the most money and years.
As the Lakers continue to navigate the complexities of roster construction in the post-LeBron era, Reaves represents something of a bridge between generations. He’s young enough to be part of the team’s next chapter, but seasoned enough to contribute meaningfully in the present. The decision to retain him at a premium price will say a lot about the franchise’s philosophy—whether they’re still chasing titles with veteran stars or shifting toward a more sustainable, youth-oriented model.
In the coming months, Reaves will be watched more closely than ever. Every clutch shot, every defensive stop, every leadership moment will be dissected through the lens of his looming contract decision. He’ll need to block out the noise and continue doing what he’s always done: proving himself on the court. But behind the scenes, negotiations will begin to shape the Lakers’ future—and Reaves’ financial destiny. Whether he signs the full five-year, \$246 million extension with L.A. or opts for a fresh start and \$183 million elsewhere, one thing is clear: Austin Reaves has officially arrived, and the NBA world is paying attention.
