LOS ANGELES — Five years after joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent, Austin Reaves stands at a pivotal moment in his career. The 27-year-old guard is widely expected to decline his player option for the 2026-27 season, becoming an unrestricted free agent on July 1. While both Reaves and the Lakers have expressed mutual interest in extending their relationship, the franchise faces a summer of critical decisions that could reshape its roster.
Reaves’ journey from a little-known Oklahoma prospect to a foundational piece in Los Angeles has been nothing short of remarkable. After going undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, he chose to sign with the Lakers over accepting a potential second-round selection, betting on his ability to earn a roster spot through hard work and determination. That gamble paid off handsomely.
“Seeing AR grow over these five years has been nothing short of amazing,” LeBron James said after the Lakers’ season ended last week. “He’s just a hard worker. He loves the game. He wants to get better and he’s not afraid of constructive criticism.”
Reaves’ development accelerated under James’ mentorship. In October 2021, just days before the start of his rookie season, James invited Reaves to join 3-point shooting drills after practice. That act of inclusion signaled the beginning of a bond that would define Reaves’ early career. “My rookie year, I had no idea what the hell was going on and he basically took me under his wing,” Reaves recalled. “Given me every opportunity that I could ever ask for and trusted me.”
A Career-Best Season
In the 2025-26 season, Reaves posted career highs across the board: 23.3 points per game on 49% shooting from the field, 4.8 rebounds, and 6.2 assists. He emerged as the Lakers’ definitive second-leading scorer behind Luka Doncic, overtaking even James late in the campaign. His improvement has been steady and sustained, a testament to his relentless work ethic.
However, the season was also marked by injuries. Reaves missed time with a left calf strain in the middle of the season and sat out most of the first round of the playoffs due to a left oblique strain. Despite these setbacks, Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Reaves’ growth as a leader. “Outside of his on-the-court production, AR grew as a leader on our team,” Redick said. “He learned how to lift others and hold them accountable.”
The Free Agency Equation
Reaves’ current contract — a four-year, $53.8 million deal signed after his sophomore season — includes a player option for the final year. With his performance, he could command a five-year, $241 million max-level deal if he re-signs with the Lakers. The team has made clear their desire to keep him. General Manager Rob Pelinka referenced a pre-draft workout in El Segundo, where an exhausted Reaves impressed Lakers brass. “I remember actually being here with my son on that court watching that,” Pelinka said. “It was one of the turning points of getting him here.”
But the Lakers face a complex roster situation. LeBron James, who turns 42 in December, is also an unrestricted free agent. He has not yet decided whether to return for a 24th season, retire, or sign elsewhere. Reaves has been open about his desire to continue playing with James. “Man, it would mean the world to me,” he said when asked. “I don’t know anything different. He’s taught me a lot. I owe him a lot for my career.”
The two have also built a personal bond through golf. Reaves, an avid golfer with a YouTube channel called “Hillbilly Bogey,” watched James take up the sport, which deepened their off-court friendship. “It’s been super fun and I hope to continue to do that,” Reaves said.
Historical Context: Undrafted Stars in the NBA
Reaves’ trajectory is reminiscent of other undrafted players who defied odds to become stars, such as Ben Wallace, Bruce Bowen, and Fred VanVleet. However, Reaves’ path is unique in that he became a key contributor on a high-profile franchise like the Lakers. His story underscores the importance of scouting and player development in the modern NBA. The Lakers’ ability to identify and nurture talent from nontraditional sources has been a hallmark of their recent success.
Reaves’ offensive versatility — he can score off the dribble, finish at the rim, and shoot from deep — makes him a valuable complementary piece to elite creators like Doncic. Defensively, he has improved his footwork and anticipation, though he can still be targeted by stronger opponents. His basketball IQ and ability to make quick decisions have earned him the trust of coaches and teammates.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The Lakers’ front office faces multiple decisions: extending Reaves, negotiating with James, and potentially reshaping the roster around Doncic. If Reaves leaves, the Lakers lose a homegrown talent who embodies the grit and determination the franchise values. If he stays, his max contract would eat into cap space but secure a young core piece for years to come.
For Reaves, the choice is personal as much as professional. “This obviously has been my best season since I’ve been a pro,” he said. “I always feel like, that’s the beautiful thing about basketball, is there’s always opportunities and areas that you can continue to grow.” He plans to take time off before returning to the gym to sharpen his game.
As the June 29 player option deadline approaches, the NBA world watches one of the league’s most compelling underdog stories. Whether Reaves remains in purple and gold or starts a new chapter elsewhere, his five-year Lakers journey has already left an indelible mark on the franchise. And for a player who once arrived as a raw rookie seeking guidance, he now stands as a leader ready to guide others.
Source: Orange County Register News