With Luka Doncic now under contract with the Los Angeles Lakers for at least the next three seasons, they can turn their attention toward guard Austin Reaves’ impending free agency.
«The expectation, from both that executive and others, is that Reaves ultimately will return to Los Angeles, which would cement Reaves’ role as the long-term running mate next to Doncic in L.A.’s backcourt — the role once held by Brunson then Irving in Dallas,» wrote Tim Bontemps.
On the other hand, Reaves could have a little bit at stake this coming season in terms of his production. While his efficiency went through the roof after Doncic arrived in February, he didn’t play up to his standards in the first round of the playoffs when L.A. was eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Another subpar showing in the playoffs could put a bit of a dent in his earnings on his next deal.
«This is a big season for him,» one Western Conference assistant coach said. «He’d better bring it in the playoffs, because he’s got to be good enough [to pair with Doncic].»
In that series, Reaves averaged 16.2 points a game and shot 41.1% overall and 31.9% from 3-point range. On the other hand, he played well and shot the basketball well in his first two postseasons, and he has shown the ability to shine brightly in big games, as well as when LeBron James has been out of the lineup.
While Doncic is the lynchpin of the Lakers’ future, Reaves, who turned 27 years of age on May 29, is also a big part of their hopes to win at least one NBA championship in the years to come.
