Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves is expected to decline his $14.9 million player option for the 2025-26 season in favor of testing free agency this summer in pursuit of a maximum contract. The 25-year-old is seeking a deal that reflects his rising value as a versatile two-way guard who has emerged as a key contributor for the Lakers.
Reaves is eligible for a max deal because he has played five seasons in the league and is under 26 years old. That means he could potentially sign a contract worth up to 25% of the salary cap. The maximum deal available from the Lakers would be a five-year, $239 million contract. Alternatively, another team could offer him a four-year, $177 million deal. Either contract would guarantee Reaves over $41 million in the first season alone.
The Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets are currently the only teams projected to have enough cap space to offer Reaves a max contract without needing to use a trade exception or sign-and-trade. Other teams would need to work out a sign-and-trade arrangement with the Lakers to acquire him, which could complicate the process.
Reaves has not indicated whether he will offer the Lakers a hometown discount in free agency. The Lakers have made it clear they want to keep him, but the team’s cap situation remains a challenge. If Reaves signs elsewhere, Los Angeles could face a financial and competitive setback as they try to rebuild around LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Since entering the league in 2020, Reaves has steadily improved his game, averaging 12.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game this season while shooting 41.1% from three-point range. His defensive versatility and basketball IQ have elevated his status as a top-tier sixth man.
The Lakers have until June 30 to decide whether to match any offer Reaves receives from another team. If Reaves opts out and signs with Chicago or Brooklyn, it could signal a shift in Los Angeles's strategy heading into next season.
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