Austin Reaves' Message on NBA Future After Lakers Trade Report
Austin Reaves' Message on NBA Future After Lakers Trade Report originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Austin Reaves has become a star for the Los Angeles Lakers, rising from undrafted rookie to standout guard and fan favorite. Over four seasons, he's carved out a niche as the Lakers' dependable third option, known for his shooting touch and high basketball IQ. His relentless work ethic, infectious energy, and willingness to embrace the spotlight have endeared him to the Crypto.com Arena crowd and beyond.
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Despite a strong run in the regular season, Los Angeles stumbled in the playoffs. Following their first-round exit, speculation mounted about Reaves' long-term role. It was reported by Dan Woike of the LA Times that the Lakers are not expected to move Reaves, but Woike's colleague Bill Plaschke argued they should.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15).Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
That speculation was addressed head-on this weekend during the Reaves Brothers Basketball Camp. Speaking to Charles McCary of K8 News, Reaves said:
'I want to be in LA. I want to play my whole career in LA. I love it there ... I don't pay attention to [the trade rumors]. I keep my head down work… And obviously the Lakers is the best organization in basketball.'
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On trade rumors, he added, "I don't pay attention to it. I keep my head down work, and I feel like that's one of the reasons I'm where I'm at."
Reaves' 2024-25 season was arguably his best yet—he averaged 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 46% from the field. His leap in production earned him a fifth-place finish in Most Improved Player voting and sparked conversations about his ascending value. His ability to create, space the floor, and deliver in big moments makes him a potentially valuable piece alongside LeBron James and Doncic next season.
With those credentials and a public declaration of loyalty, Reaves is staking his claim to remain a core piece of the Lakers' future. If Los Angeles prioritizes continuity and chemistry alongside its star duo, Reaves may well stay—and thrive—as the team's undisputed third scoring threat.
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Related: Dalton Knecht Sends LeBron James Message After 'Retirement' Post
Related: Luka Doncic Is Trending After Major NBA Trade on Sunday
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
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