Latest news with #Reaves'
Time Business News
16-06-2025
- Sport
- Time Business News
Austin Reaves Trade Rumors: Analyzing the Chances of the Lakers
Austin Reaves has become a fan favorite and a crucial player for the Los Angeles Lakers since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in 2021. His rapid ascent from bench player to starter has sparked discussions about his future with the franchise. As the NBA trade deadline approaches and teams look to bolster their rosters, speculation about Reaves' potential trade has intensified. In this article, we'll explore the chances of Austin Reaves being traded by the LA Lakers, examining various factors that could influence such a decision. But if the Lakers fans are still undecided on the status of Austin Reaves, Pinoy card game enthusiasts should join the Tongits party in GameZone . Before delving into trade possibilities, it's essential to understand Reaves' journey and his current value to the Lakers. The 6'5″ guard from Arkansas has shown remarkable improvement since his rookie season, developing into a reliable scorer, playmaker, and defender. His basketball IQ, hustle, and clutch performances have endeared him to Lakers fans and earned praise from teammates and coaches alike. In the 2024-2025 season, Reaves averaged a career-high 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, shooting an impressive 46% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. His performance in the playoffs was even more impressive, as he stepped up in crucial moments and helped the Lakers reach the Western Conference Finals. Salary Cap Constraints: The Lakers are operating close to the salary cap, and Reaves is due for a significant pay raise. As a restricted free agent in the upcoming offseason, he could command a substantial contract that might strain the Lakers' financial flexibility. Win-Now Mentality: With LeBron James nearing the end of his career, the Lakers may prioritize adding established veterans who can contribute immediately to their championship aspirations. Addressing Team Needs: The Lakers might consider trading Reaves if they identify specific areas of weakness that need immediate attention, such as three-point shooting or frontcourt depth. High Trade Value: Reaves' impressive performances and team-friendly contract make him an attractive trade asset. The Lakers could potentially use him to acquire a star player or multiple role players to address various needs. Young Talent with Upside: At 26 years old, Reaves has shown significant growth and still has room for improvement. The Lakers may view him as a key piece of their future core. Chemistry and Fit: Reaves has developed excellent chemistry with the team, particularly with stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His selfless play and ability to adapt to different roles make him valuable in the Lakers' system. Fan Favorite: Reaves' popularity among Lakers fans could factor into the team's decision-making process, as trading him might negatively impact fan sentiment. Cost-Effective Production: Until his next contract, Reaves provides excellent value for his current salary, allowing the Lakers to allocate resources elsewhere on the roster. Homegrown Talent: The Lakers take pride in developing undrafted players into valuable contributors, and Reaves is a prime example of their player development success. While specific trade rumors are speculative, here are a few hypothetical scenarios where the Lakers might consider moving Reaves: Package Deal for a Star: The Lakers could include Reaves in a package deal to acquire a third star to complement James and Doncic. This would likely require additional assets and salary matching. Addressing Multiple Needs: In a multi-team trade, the Lakers could potentially use Reaves to acquire multiple role players that address various team needs, such as perimeter defense, shooting, and frontcourt depth. Draft Pick Acquisition: If the Lakers decide to rebuild or retool for the future, they might consider trading Reaves for draft picks and young prospects. NBA analysts and insiders have weighed in on the likelihood of a Reaves trade. While opinions vary, most agree that trading Reaves would be a difficult decision for the Lakers' front office. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski stated, 'Austin Reaves has become a core piece for the Lakers. While no player is untouchable, it would take a significant offer for the Lakers to consider moving him.' Former Lakers player and current analyst Robert Horry commented, 'Reaves reminds me of a young Derek Fisher. He's the type of player championship teams need. I'd be surprised if the Lakers traded him unless it was for a bonafide star.' The Lakers' front office, led by General Manager Rob Pelinka, has not publicly commented on Reaves' trade status. However, head coach JJ Reddick has consistently praised Reaves' contributions and growth, suggesting that the young guard is viewed as an important part of the team's plans. Lakers fans have overwhelmingly expressed support for keeping Reaves. Social media campaigns and fan forums are filled with messages urging the team to retain the popular guard. This public sentiment could play a role in the front office's decision-making process. While the possibility of an Austin Reaves trade cannot be completely ruled out, the chances appear relatively low based on current circumstances. His value to the team, both on and off the court, makes him an integral part of the Lakers' present and future plans. The Lakers' decision will ultimately depend on various factors, including their assessment of the team's championship window, financial considerations, and potential trade offers. As the trade deadline approaches, fans and analysts will be closely watching for any indications of the Lakers' intentions regarding their rising star. Reaves' situation highlights the delicate balance NBA teams must strike between nurturing young talent and pursuing immediate success. For now, it seems more likely that Austin Reaves will continue to don the purple and gold, thrilling Lakers fans with his gritty play and clutch performances. As the NBA landscape continues to evolve, so too will the discussions surrounding Austin Reaves and his future with the Los Angeles Lakers. Whether he remains with the team long-term or becomes part of a blockbuster trade, one thing is certain: Austin Reaves has established himself as a valuable NBA player, and his journey will be closely followed by basketball fans around the world. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lakers Could Trade Austin Reaves If He Opts Out Seeking $200M Deal
As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for another pivotal offseason, one of the biggest question marks surrounds the future of guard Austin Reaves. Once considered one of the franchise's most promising young players, Reaves is now a candidate to be moved if contract negotiations don't align with the team's long-term vision. Reaves, who posted a career year with 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds on 46% shooting from the field and 37.7% from three, is eligible for a significant raise. Under the current CBA, the Lakers can offer him a four-year extension worth $89.2 million. Advertisement However, reports suggest Reaves is expected to opt out of his $53 million deal after next season and could seek a max-level extension in the $180–200 million range, which would pay him upwards of $42 million annually. For a player who struggled in the postseason, averaging just 16.2 points on 41.1% shooting, those are eye-popping numbers. And it may be too much for the Lakers' front office to stomach, especially after a first-round exit where Reaves' limitations were exposed by a tougher, more physical Timberwolves team. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers brass now face a critical decision: lock in Reaves at a premium rate despite playoff inconsistencies, or cash in on his rising value via trade while they still can. Reaves is not untouchable, far from it. According to Sports Illustrated's Ricardo Sandoval, 'If former Lakers star big man Anthony Davis is not untouchable, then Reaves falls into that same category — for the right price, of course." Advertisement The Lakers are known to be in the market for a major frontcourt upgrade or a third star to flank LeBron James and Luka Doncic, and including Reaves in a trade package could help match salaries while giving another team a plug-and-play scorer with youth and upside. The irony in Reaves' situation is that he's earned this moment. Undrafted out of Oklahoma, he worked his way from two-way hopeful to playoff starter and Team USA contributor. His fiery, fearless style won over Lakers fans, and even more importantly, LeBron James. But the postseason is a harsh evaluator, and in this league, value is measured in May, not March. If Reaves pushes for a deal nearing $200 million, as some insiders believe he might, the Lakers may be forced to explore sign-and-trade scenarios to recoup assets rather than risk losing him for nothing. The ideal return would include size, defense, and playoff toughness, traits L.A. sorely lacked against Minnesota. Advertisement Nothing is set in stone yet, but the writing may be on the wall. Unless Reaves and the Lakers can agree on a more modest extension, the relationship could be headed for an offseason split. And while fans may not want to hear it, sometimes moving on is what championship-chasing franchises have to do. Reaves was a revelation. But with luxury tax implications, roster needs, and postseason disappointments on the table, the Lakers could decide that the next chapter doesn't include him. Related: Joel Embiid To Lakers Can Happen Without Trading Austin Reaves, Says Bill Simmons
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
NBA playoffs 2025, seeds, standings, matchups: Can Austin Reaves help take the Lakers to another level?
(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.) Austin Reaves has been a revelation for the Lakers, making significant strides toward stardom. The fourth-year player has earned the support of none other than LeBron James, who seemed to see the hidden prowess before anyone else. Reaves' recent performances, averaging 27 points over his last six games, suggest he could be the next big deal in L.A. But can Reaves sustain this All-Star trajectory? [Yahoo Fantasy Bracket Mayhem is back: Enter for a shot to win up to $50K] Undrafted and underrated, Reaves was given the NBA equivalent of a golden ticket when he landed on LeBron's radar. On "The Kevin O'Connor Show" Tom Haberstroh pointed out, 'This wasn't a thing a year and a half ago.' Yet, now it's impossible not to notice when Reaves takes the court. His recent stats tell the story, adding 5.6 assists and 5.1 rebounds on impressive shooting percentages since James went down with a groin injury. Reaves' combination of timely drives, sharpshooting and clutch playmaking is reminiscent of Khris Middleton's rise to a cornerstone of the championship Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. [You could win $25K in the Women's Bracket Mayhem contest. Enter now!] But why has Reaves been so successful? The answer might lie in his role within the Lakers' system. Reaves has seamlessly served as a connector and filled the gaps in the offense. With James delegating more to both Reaves and Luka Dončić when healthy, the pressure of elevating the team doesn't rest completely on James' shoulders. Kevin O'Connor likened Reaves' impact to that of Manu Ginóbili on the Spurs' dynasty, emphasizing Reaves' ability to shift momentum and earn critical free throws, much like the Spurs' legend. The Lakers find themselves in a solid position at 43-25, good for third in the Western Conference, but Reaves' ascent couldn't have been more timely. LeBron's eventual return will further cement this dynamic, possibly creating one of the most versatile offensive teams in the league. O'Connor noted LeBron might even lean into a more distributive role, 'deferring even more to not only Luka but also Austin Reaves.' Considering Reaves' proficiency and fearlessness, this could be exactly the energy the Lakers need to push their championship aspirations further. To hear the full discussion, tune into "The Kevin O'Connor Show" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.
