The future of Austin Reaves with the Los Angeles Lakers may be uncertain, with insider Jovan Buha predicting a 55% chance that the young guard could opt to leave the team after the 2026-27 season.
Appearing on his podcast Buha’s Block, Buha highlighted how LeBron James’ retirement, expected after next season, could impact the league. The departure of James could set off a series of events that could influence Reaves’ future in LA.
“I would say it’s close to 50-50,” Buha stated, leaning toward a 55% chance that Reaves doesn’t stay with the Lakers. “He can opt out after next season, and I think he’s going to have a competitive market.”
Buha further emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the Lakers’ direction post-LeBron, noting that if James retires, the team will need to make significant decisions regarding Anthony Davis and how to build a new roster around him. The transition away from a LeBron-centric lineup could complicate the team’s plans, making it more likely that Reaves could seek an opportunity elsewhere.
Reaves, who signed a four-year, $53.83 million deal with the Lakers before the current season, will have the option to opt out of his contract after the 2026-27 campaign. Should he test the market, Buha believes Reaves could attract a contract worth upwards of $375 million from another team.
“The Lakers are obviously high on him,” Buha added. “They have refused to trade him, and he’s a fan favorite. But with the uncertainty of where the Lakers could be in 2026, there’s a chance Austin might get a bigger offer elsewhere.”
Despite these potential concerns, Reaves and the Lakers remain focused on their current season. With an 11-7 record, the team is looking to build on its success as they prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Friday.
As the future of the Lakers’ roster hangs in the balance, Reaves’ role in the team’s post-LeBron era remains one of the key storylines to watch.
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