The $246.7 Million Question: Austin Reaves’ Strategic Play for a Monster Lakers Deal.
Los Angeles, CA The recent news of Austin Reaves declining a four-year, $89.2 million maximum contract extension from the Los Angeles Lakers might have sent a shiver down the spines of some Laker faithful. However, far from being a sign of disinterest in remaining with the purple and gold, this calculated move is Reaves’ strategic play to secure a significantly larger, long-term deal potentially reaching up to a staggering five-year, $246.7 million – in the summer of 2026.
Reaves, who turned 27 in May, is currently in the third year of a remarkably team-friendly four-year, $54 million contract he inked in July 2023. While that deal was a testament to his burgeoning value as an undrafted gem, his continued development has far outpaced its terms. In the recently concluded 2024-25 season, Reaves showcased his undeniable growth, averaging career highs of 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game over 73 starts. His impressive 37.7% shooting from three-point range further solidified his standing as a vital offensive weapon.
The $89.2 million offer was, in fact, the absolute maximum the Lakers could extend to Reaves under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) based on his existing contract. This limitation is a crucial factor in understanding Reaves’ decision. Players with his level of experience (currently four seasons in the NBA) are capped at a starting salary of 25% of the salary cap for an extension. By playing out his current deal, Reaves positions himself for a much more lucrative unrestricted free agency in 2026. 
When Reaves becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2026, the landscape of his potential earnings dramatically shifts. The Lakers, holding his Bird Rights, will have the unique ability to offer him a five-year contract with annual raises of 8%, rather than the 5% allowed for other teams. This is where the projected $246.7 million figure comes into play. Based on current NBA salary cap projections, a full maximum contract for a player with Reaves’ experience (who will then have five years of experience) could indeed approach that monumental sum over five years from the Lakers.
Should Reaves opt to sign with another team as an unrestricted free agent, the maximum they could offer would be a four-year deal, estimated to be around $182.9 million. While still a massive sum, the additional year and higher annual raises from the Lakers make staying in Los Angeles the most financially rewarding option if he commands a true max.
Reaves has consistently reiterated his desire to remain a Laker for life. “I want to be in L.A.,” Reaves stated unequivocally earlier this month. “I want to play my whole career in L.A. I love it there. I love the fans. Love the weather, love the golf. And obviously, the Lakers is the best organization in basketball.” This sentiment underscores that his decision is purely a strategic financial one, not an indication of discontent with the franchise.
The Lakers, for their part, understand Reaves’ position. The recent offer was likely a formality, a demonstration of their commitment while acknowledging the limitations of the CBA. They are fully aware that to retain a talent of Reaves’ caliber, they will need to be prepared to offer a near-max or max contract in 2026. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic already on the books, managing the salary cap will be a significant challenge for the Lakers, but Reaves’ importance to the team’s future is undeniable.
Ultimately, Reaves is making a calculated bet on himself. His impressive statistical growth and unwavering loyalty to the Lakers suggest that this gamble is likely to pay off handsomely. Laker fans can look forward to another season of Reaves’ impactful play, knowing that a much larger, well-deserved payday and hopefully a continued partnership awaits him in the summer of 2026.
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