If Reaves pushes for a deal nearing $200 million, as some insiders believe he might, the Lakers may be forced to explore sign-and-trade scenarios to recoup assets rather than risk losing him for nothing. The ideal return would include size, defense, and playoff toughness, traits L.A. sorely lacked against Minnesota.

The Los Angeles Lakers have all sorts of offseason rumors swirling. The idea that Austin Reaves might get traded? That might have real legs to it given the implications of Reaves' contract. Reaves can opt out of his deal after the 2025-26 NBA season.

The Los Angeles Lakers did not end this season the way they expected to. They streaked to third place in the West behind the stellar contributions of LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and the rest.