Overview
- Reaves has a $14.8 million player option for 2026–27, and Brian Windhorst gives a 0.0% chance of an extension and a 99.9% chance he declines the option.
- League estimates suggest free‑agency offers could reach $40–42.5 million per year, with Bobby Marks noting he could be eligible for up to 25% of the cap.
- The Lakers are weighing retention versus trade avenues, with Jovan Buha naming Trey Murphy III as an intriguing two‑way wing target.
- A Murphy swap would be costly after his four‑year, $113 million extension and New Orleans’ reported demand for multiple first‑round picks and young talent.
- Reaves’ leverage is fueled by production, including 20.2 points and 5.8 assists last season and a 22.0 preseason scoring average with a 25‑point outing alongside Luka Dončić.