Analyzing whether Lakers need to rethink Austin Reaves' role following a challenging Timberwolves playoff series.
Breaking Down Austin Reaves' Future with the Lakers
With the playoffs on the horizon, it seemed like Luka Doncic and LeBron James had a third star by their side, thanks to Austin Reaves' stellar season. averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game with impressive shooting splits of 46/37.7/87.7. However, against the Minnesota Timberwolves' long, athletic defenders, Reaves has struggled, leaving the Lakers' offense lacking.
With a bad matchup and contract extension negotiations looming, the question arises: Should the Lakers consider trading Reaves?
Contractual Matterings
Reaves has two years left on his current deal, with a player option after next season. He could sign an extension for around $90 million over four years this summer. Before the playoffs, it seemed likely that Reaves would turn down this offer, as it falls below his regular-season production. However, sources suggest his value is between $30 and $33 million per year.
These playoffs have been tough, but it doesn't seem like Reaves should accept even the max extension the Lakers could offer this summer. Moreover, there's been no indication that the Lakers are willing to change their stance on offering Reaves an extension[2].
Talent vs Role
The Lakers' heavy reliance on Doncic and their defensive approach have raised concerns about Reaves' role moving forward. His athleticism and smaller frame limit him defensively, and he's struggled as a spot-up shooter against Minnesota's quick closeouts[3].
If the Lakers are set on this style of play, they might consider bringing in players who better fit the role Reaves has been put into. However, it's crucial to remember that Austin Reaves' talent is not the problem here[5].
Whose Available?
If superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant become available, the Lakers would be foolish not to include Reaves in a potential trade package. Outside of these two, finding suitable trade partners might be challenging[1].
In Closing
Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether the Lakers can maximize Reaves' talents. If they fail to do so, paying for his unused skills doesn't make sense[5]. Regardless, Reaves has only one more year on his current deal at a steep price. Moving him now, before his cap hit nearly triples, could be an option for some within the Lakers organization[2]. But doing so out of desperate necessity, rather than a well-thought-out plan, would be a mistake.
[1] - ESPN
[2] - Forbes
[3] - HoopsHype
[4] - The Athletic
[5] - Sports Illustrated
- The Lakers, despite Austin Reaves' impressive season, have struggled against teams with long, athletic defenders, like the Minnesota Timberwolves, raising questions about his role in the playoffs.
- In contract extension negotiations, Reaves' value is estimated to be between $30 and $33 million per year, while the Lakers are reportedly unwilling to extend an offer above $90 million over four years.
- If the Lakers decide to upgrade their roster, athletes such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant could be potential trade targets, but finding suitable partners outside of them might prove challenging.
- The Lakers need to weigh the potential benefits of maximizing Austin Reaves' talents versus the cost of his contract, especially since he has only one more year left on his current deal at a steep price, and a cap hit that could nearly triple if he signs an extension.
