[Woike & Amick] Rival executives predicted (Austin) Reaves could command $40 million a season due to a combination of his play, his age and, perhaps most importantly, a free-agent class completely devoid of players as productive as him
Of course, trading for a star without including Reaves would significantly complicate any negotiations. The Lakers have access to just three first-round picks, one second-round pick, swaps and few younger players with significant value in league circles.
All of this, of course, is contingent on the Lakers and Reaves coming together on a deal. While team and league sources believe that the Lakers and Reaves will eventually land on a contract that makes sense, the door for Reaves to walk is open should he get a big offer elsewhere. Rival executives predicted Reaves could command $40 million a season due to a combination of his play, his age and, perhaps most importantly, a free-agent class completely devoid of players as productive as him in their prime. At present, the Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets, who both have needs at the guard position, are the only teams with the sort of salary-cap space available to meet that sort of financial mark. Other teams that are known to have some interest in Reaves — like Utah and Atlanta, per league sources — would need to make roster moves to find the necessary space. League sources say winning will be a significant factor in Reaves’ thinking.
Over the last two seasons, Reaves has averaged 21.5 points, 5.7 assists and 4.6 rebounds. The only other players to average those numbers while playing in at least 100 games are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, Antetokounmpo, James Harden, Cade Cunningham, LaMelo Ball, Dončić and James. The question on the Lakers’ side of the boardroom table is where they see Reaves’ price point in relation to their larger roster goals. Per high-ranking team sources, the commitment to roster balance will guide their process.