**Austin Reaves Signs Player Option with LA Lakers, Wants to Be Paid Like Eastern Conference All-Star**
The Los Angeles Lakers have made another strategic move in their offseason plans by securing Austin Reaves on a player option for the upcoming season. The young guard, who has rapidly become a fan favorite and a key contributor for the Lakers, is now looking ahead to his future with the franchise. However, reports suggest that Reaves is eyeing a significant pay raise in the near future—one that would reflect his growing value and potentially align him with the salaries of Eastern Conference All-Stars.
### **Reaves’ Rise to Prominence**
Austin Reaves’ journey from an undrafted free agent to a crucial piece of the Lakers’ rotation is nothing short of remarkable. After going undrafted in 2021, he signed a two-way contract with the Lakers and quickly proved his worth with his high basketball IQ, defensive tenacity, and clutch shooting. His breakout season came in 2022-23, where he averaged 13.0 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 52.9% from the field and 39.8% from three-point range.
Reaves’ performance in the playoffs further solidified his reputation as a rising star. He played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ deep playoff run, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure with multiple 20-point games. His chemistry with LeBron James and Anthony Davis made him an indispensable part of the Lakers’ core, and his fearless approach earned him respect across the league.
### **The Financial Dilemma: Reaves’ Market Value**
Despite his contributions, Reaves has been on a team-friendly contract, earning just under $1.6 million in the 2023-24 season. By signing his player option, he ensures his return to the Lakers for at least one more year, but it’s clear that he believes he’s worth much more. According to league sources, Reaves is seeking a contract that would place him in the same financial tier as some of the Eastern Conference’s rising stars and All-Stars.
Players like Tyrese Haliburton (max extension), Tyler Herro ($120 million over four years), and Desmond Bane (similar lucrative deals) have set a benchmark for young guards who have proven themselves as key pieces for their teams. Reaves’ camp reportedly views him in a similar light—a player who may not be a perennial All-Star yet but whose impact on winning justifies a significant payday.
### **Lakers’ Cap Situation and Future Decisions**
The Lakers are in a tricky financial position. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis consuming a large portion of the salary cap, the team must carefully manage its resources to maintain a competitive roster. Reaves’ current contract allows the Lakers to retain him at a bargain, but his next deal could demand a substantial raise—potentially in the range of $20-25 million annually.
The Lakers have Reaves’ Bird Rights, meaning they can exceed the salary cap to re-sign him. However, with luxury tax concerns and other roster needs, the front office will have to weigh whether committing a large portion of their payroll to Reaves is the best long-term move. If they hesitate, rival teams could swoop in with lucrative offers in future free agency periods.
### **Comparisons to Eastern Conference Guards**
Reaves’ desire to be paid like an Eastern Conference All-Star isn’t unfounded. When looking at players like Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers), Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), and even younger guards like Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons), their contracts reflect their importance to their respective teams.
– **Tyrese Maxey** – After a breakout season, Maxey is in line for a max or near-max extension.
– **Jalen Brunson** – Signed a four-year, $104 million deal with the Knicks and has outperformed that contract.
– **Tyler Herro** – Miami’s $120 million investment shows how teams value young, scoring guards.
Reaves may not have the same volume stats as some of these players, but his efficiency, defensive versatility, and playoff performances make a strong case for a similar pay structure.
### **What’s Next for Reaves and the Lakers?**
For now, Reaves remains a bargain for the Lakers, allowing them to build around their core before his inevitable payday. However, if he continues to improve—particularly as a playmaker and scorer—his market value will only rise. The Lakers must decide whether to lock him up early with an extension or risk him testing free agency, where a team with cap space could make a massive offer.
One thing is certain: Austin Reaves has outplayed his current contract, and his next deal will reflect his importance to the Lakers’ present and future. Whether he ultimately gets paid like an Eastern Conference All-Star will depend on his continued growth and the Lakers’ willingness to invest in him long-term.
### **Conclusion**
Austin Reaves’ decision to sign his player option ensures his immediate future with the Lakers, but his ambitions are clear—he wants to be compensated like the star he’s becoming. As the Lakers navigate their financial constraints, they’ll have to make a crucial decision: reward Reaves now or face the risk of losing him to a higher bidder later. Either way, Reaves’ journey from undrafted gem to potential max-contract player is a testament to his hard work and the Lakers’ keen eye for talent. The next chapter of his career will be defined not just by his play on the court, but by the value the franchise—and the league—places on him.
