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Reaves' Value Skyrockets: $45M Contract Expected

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, March 12th 2026 at 3:25 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, SLOVENIA

The Current Landscape: Reaves' Existing Deal & Projected Value

Currently in the second year of a modest two-year, $7.2 million contract, Reaves is drastically underpaid relative to his on-court contribution. This discrepancy is driving his projected contract value skyward. Reports, notably from Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, suggest Reaves is likely to command a contract averaging around $44.9 million per year. If realized, this would immediately place him among the Lakers' highest-paid players - a significant commitment for a team already burdened with substantial long-term contracts.

Financial Tightrope: Balancing Reaves with LeBron, Davis & Russell

The Lakers' predicament isn't solely about Reaves' worth; it's about fitting him into an existing salary structure that's already stretched thin. LeBron James' impending free agency is the most significant unknown. Will he re-sign with the Lakers, and if so, at what price? Anthony Davis's existing max contract continues to consume a significant portion of the cap, and D'Angelo Russell, another key player, is also in need of a contract extension. The Lakers must carefully weigh the cost of retaining Reaves against the potential loss of other valuable contributors.

The Olympic Factor: Boosting Reaves' Market Value

Adding another layer of complexity is Reaves' expected participation in the 2024 Olympic Games representing Team USA. Playing alongside elite international talent, including likely opponent Luka Doncic, will provide Reaves with a global platform to showcase his skills. A strong Olympic performance could further elevate his profile and, consequently, his market value, potentially driving up his contract demands even higher. This creates a ticking clock for the Lakers - they risk facing even steeper negotiations if Reaves excels on the international stage.

The opportunity to play with and against the world's best players will not only enhance Reaves' skillset but also provide valuable experience that will translate to his NBA performance. It's a win-win for the player, but a potential headache for the Lakers' front office.

Strategic Delay: Post-Playoff Negotiations?

The Lakers appear to be adopting a strategic approach by delaying contract negotiations until after the playoffs. This allows them to assess Reaves' value not just based on regular-season performance, but also on his impact during the high-pressure environment of the postseason. A deep playoff run led by Reaves will undoubtedly strengthen their case for offering him a substantial contract. Conversely, an early exit could lead them to reconsider their financial commitments.

Furthermore, waiting until after the playoffs provides a clearer picture of the team's overall financial situation. They'll have a better understanding of their cap space, potential revenue streams, and the implications of LeBron James' decision. This allows them to negotiate from a position of strength and avoid making rash decisions based on incomplete information.

Looking Ahead: A Delicate Balance

The Lakers face a delicate balancing act. They must demonstrate their commitment to Reaves, a player who has quickly become a fan favorite and a vital part of the team's identity. However, they also need to maintain financial flexibility to address other roster needs and potentially pursue additional free agents. The coming months will be critical as the Lakers navigate this challenging contract situation and strive to build a championship-contending team around LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the rising star that is Austin Reaves.