Before a late-December calf strain sidelined him, Austin Reaves was on an absolute tear for the Lakers - and not just by his usual gritty, glue-guy standards. The undrafted guard was putting up 26.6 points and 6.3 assists a night, shooting a scorching 50.7% from the field and a solid 36.5% from deep. That’s not just impressive - that’s All-Star ballot-worthy production, and voters have taken notice.
Reaves has carved out a unique role in L.A., blending scoring, playmaking, and that signature edge that’s made him a fan favorite at Crypto.com Arena. But as his breakout campaign continues to build momentum - even with the injury setback - his future in purple and gold is becoming one of the more intriguing storylines heading into the offseason.
He’s got one year left on his current deal, but all signs point to him opting out this summer in search of a bigger contract - and frankly, he’s earned it. The Lakers are expected to be aggressive in trying to keep him, but it’s far from a lock that he stays in L.A.
Other teams are watching closely, and one name that’s already surfaced is the Utah Jazz. Analyst Kevin O’Connor recently said on his podcast that Utah is expected to be “very interested” in Reaves this summer. According to O’Connor, there are teams prepared to throw a significant offer Reaves’ way - potentially even a max - and his agent, Rich Paul, is likely well aware of the market forming around his client.
That looming possibility has sparked some chatter about whether the Lakers might consider trading Reaves before the February 5 trade deadline, rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency. O’Connor floated Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III as a potential trade target - and even suggested he might be a better fit for this current version of the Lakers.
Murphy, a 6-foot-8 forward with a silky shooting stroke and plenty of bounce, is having a strong season in New Orleans. He’s averaging 22.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, while shooting just under 50% from the floor and nearly 39% from three. He brings size, athleticism, and floor spacing - all areas the Lakers could use a boost in as they try to climb the Western Conference standings.
But there’s a catch: the Pelicans, despite sitting at the bottom of the West with a 10-34 record, reportedly aren’t eager to make a big move at the moment. So even if the Lakers are interested, prying Murphy loose might be easier said than done.
Still, the Reaves situation is one to watch closely. He’s become a vital piece of the Lakers’ core, but his rising value and looming free agency make him both an asset and a potential risk. Whether L.A. decides to double down and lock him in long-term or explore trade options before the deadline, one thing’s clear - Austin Reaves has put himself in the middle of the NBA’s offseason chessboard.