BREAKING: Austin Reaves Says “Thanks But No Thanks” to Four‑Year, $89.2 M Extension — What’s Really Going On?
In a move that’s shaking up the NBA offseason, Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers has declined the maximum four‑year extension worth roughly $89.2 million — offered by the team this summer — opting instead to bet on his future for a bigger payday.
Reaves, just 27 and coming off the best season of his young career (averaging 20.2 points per game among other highs), isn’t turning down the deal out of discontent or frustration with his franchise. Rather, league sources say this is a calculated strategy to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, when he expects his value to peak.
Why walk away now?
The core of the decision: the Lakers were bound by current salary cap and CBA constraints which capped what they could offer. Reaves and his camp determined that locking in under those limits would undervalue his trajectory.
By declining the extension:
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He keeps his 2025‑26 season — and then holds the right to opt out and hit unrestricted free agency summer of 2026.
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He bets that after building on his breakout campaign, he’ll command a much larger contract than the $22‑million‑per‑year average of the offer.
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He remains committed to the Lakers — publicly reaffirming his desire to stay in Los Angeles and win there.
What this means for the Lakers
For the franchise and front office, this decision poses both risk and reward:
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On one hand, they retain a burgeoning star, someone who fits alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić, and likely remains part of their long‑term core.
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On the other hand, the club now must plan for the possibility of higher financial commitments, or risk losing him if another franchise offers more in 2026.
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With the Lakers already operating near luxury‑tax and first‑apron constraints, this decision further complicates roster construction and future financial flexibility.
What’s next for Reaves (and the league)?
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His 2025‑26 season becomes pivotal: a strong campaign can turbocharge his market value.
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Other teams will be watching and preparing — though Reaves’ stated preference is staying in L.A., money and opportunity may tug.
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The Lakers need to optimize their cap and roster now, knowing the potential next chapter looms large.
Final take
Austin Reaves rejecting the $89.2 million deal isn’t about frustration or demands — it’s strategic. He is positioning himself for a moment when the market — and his performance — will command more. The Lakers know what they have in him; now their job is making sure they position themselves to keep him when the check‑book opens. For fans, for his teammates, and for the NBA at large, this is a story that’s far from over.
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