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Austin Reaves Reiterates Lakers Loyalty After Declining $89.2 Million Extension

At media day, the guard framed the offer as below his market, positioning 2026 free agency as a chance to secure fair value.

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Overview

  • He confirmed turning down a four-year, $89.2 million offer, which was the maximum the Lakers could extend under CBA rules at the time.
  • He said he wants to be a Laker for his entire career and communicated that preference directly to Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss.
  • Team and league sources now project his next contract in the $35 million to $40 million-plus annual range if he reaches 2026 free agency.
  • Acknowledging the business side, Reaves admitted he briefly thought a trade might follow his decision, with speculation continuing around the league.
  • Following a 2024–25 breakout season averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 assists and 4.5 rebounds, he is widely expected to decline his 2026 player option to test the market.