Getty Image / Harry How
It’s a big offseason coming up for the Los Angeles Lakers. After the team appeared dead to rights midway through the 2022-2023 season, the team made key moves that helped guide the franchise back to the Western Conference Finals. All of a sudden, the LeBron James and Anthony Davis core seems to have new life in terms of a run at another championship. But, a big part of that will be bringing back guard Austin Reaves.
Reaves burst onto the scene in a huge way late last season. The 25-year-old journeyman out of Oklahoma burst into the starting lineup for the Lakers, and made it count. After averaging 13 points a game in 29 minutes a game, his role increased drastically in the playoffs. Austin Reaves started all 16 playoff games, averaging 36 minutes a game and just under 17 points per night. At times, he seemed to be the third scoring option in Los Angeles behind Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
But, Austin Reaves is now a restricted free agent. Long story short, he is free to sign an offer sheet with any team, but the Los Angeles Lakers will have the right to match said offer sheet and retain Reaves. Or, he could just agree to a contract with the Lakers, which most people expected him to do. But, that may not be the case, as it sounds like he is going to explore his options.
One thing not in here, but don’t expect Austin Reaves to accept a Lakers offer immediately on Friday. Will need to wait to see what is out there for him on the market. https://t.co/xczTd6Majq
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 30, 2023
This is probably the best move for Austin Reaves, and with the Lakers being able to match any deal he signs, it ultimately won’t matter too much for the team. But, he is definitely someone they have to bring back. And, who knows, they could poison-pilled by a huge offer they simply can’t or don’t want to much.