There are no credible reports indicating that Austin Reaves has agreed to a $900 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. Such a figure would be unprecedented in the NBA. In reality, Reaves, a 6-foot-5 guard, signed a four-year contract worth approximately $54 million with the Lakers in July 2023. 
Reaves’ journey to this contract is noteworthy. After going undrafted out of Oklahoma in 2021, he initially joined the Lakers on a two-way deal. His performance earned him a guaranteed roster spot before the 2021-2022 season. In his second season, Reaves averaged 13.0 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game, with impressive shooting percentages: 52.9% from the field, 39.8% from three-point range, and 86.4% from the free-throw line.
His contributions were pivotal during the Lakers’ push to secure a spot in the play-in tournament. In the final 11 regular-season games, Reaves elevated his game, averaging 19.8 points and 6.1 assists while shooting 58% from the field, leading the team to a 9-2 record and the seventh seed in the Western Conference.
During the playoffs, Reaves continued his strong performance, averaging 16.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, starting all 16 postseason games as the Lakers advanced to the Western Conference finals.
The Lakers’ decision to secure Reaves with a four-year contract reflects their commitment to retaining their core of young talent. This strategy aligns with the team’s broader plan to build a competitive roster around established stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
In summary, while the notion of a $900 million contract for Austin Reaves is unfounded, his actual four-year, $54 million deal underscores the Lakers’ recognition of his value and potential as a key contributor to the team’s success.
Leave a Reply