As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, a seismic shift is brewing in the City of Angels. At the heart of this transformation is none other than Austin Reaves, the unassuming guard from Arkansas, whose rise to prominence has become the cornerstone of the Lakers’ ambitions. On Thursday, second-year head coach JJ Redick dropped a five-word bombshell that has sent shockwaves through the NBA: “He’s been the best player.” These words, spoken during a press conference ahead of training camp, encapsulate Reaves’ relentless work ethic, physical transformation, and undeniable impact—setting the stage for a potential dynasty-level overhaul in Los Angeles.
Reaves’ Offseason: A Star in the Making
Redick’s glowing assessment of Reaves didn’t come out of nowhere. The Lakers’ coach, known for his analytical approach and player development acumen, revealed that Reaves has been dominating offseason workouts. “Every day that he’s been in the gym, he’s been the best player in the gym,” Redick told reporters, as relayed by Lakers beat reporter Mike Trudell. “His body is really good right now. He’s really strong. His burst, his athleticism. It’s evident that he spent a lot of time working on his body this summer.”
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This praise isn’t just coach-speak. Reaves, coming off a career-best 2024-25 season where he averaged 20.2 points per game on 46.0% shooting, 5.8 assists, and 1.1 steals, has clearly taken his game to another level. His ability to deliver in clutch moments last season solidified his reputation as one of LA’s most reliable late-game scorers. Now, with a chiseled physique and enhanced athleticism, Reaves is poised to elevate his game further, proving he’s worth every penny of the $30-35 million annual contract he’s reportedly seeking next summer.
A Bold Bet on Himself
Reaves’ confidence in his trajectory is evident in his decision to turn down a four-year, nearly $90 million contract extension from the Lakers this summer. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Reaves and his representatives opted to bypass the security of that deal, choosing instead to test unrestricted free agency in 2026. The gamble? A potential contract “worth well over $100 million,” per McMenamin’s reporting. This bold move underscores Reaves’ belief that his value extends far beyond his current deal and that his performance this season will cement his status as a cornerstone of the Lakers’ future.
While the decision to hit the open market carries risks, NBA executives are betting on Reaves staying in Los Angeles. One anonymous exec told ESPN, “I think he will get $30 [million] plus,” a sentiment echoed by multiple front-office sources. The consensus is clear: Reaves is seen as the ideal long-term running mate for Luka Doncic in LA’s backcourt, a role previously filled by stars like Jalen Brunson and Kyrie Irving during their tenures in Dallas. With Reaves’ two-way play, clutch scoring, and playmaking, the Lakers are banking on him to anchor their championship aspirations alongside Doncic.
The Dynasty Vision: Reaves and Doncic as the Core
Redick’s five-word declaration—“He’s been the best player”—is more than a compliment; it’s a signal of the Lakers’ long-term vision. The franchise is undergoing a transformation, with Reaves and Doncic at its heart. Reaves’ ability to complement Doncic’s playstyle—his off-ball movement, spot-up shooting, and knack for creating his own shot—makes him the perfect fit for a team looking to dominate the Western Conference. Add to that his defensive tenacity (1.1 steals per game last season) and his growth as a facilitator (5.8 assists per game), and it’s clear why the Lakers are all-in on their homegrown talent.
The synergy between Reaves and Doncic could redefine the Lakers’ identity. While Doncic handles the primary playmaking duties, Reaves’ versatility allows him to thrive as a secondary creator, spot-up shooter, or even a defensive sparkplug. This dynamic duo has the potential to rival the NBA’s elite backcourts, and with Redick’s innovative coaching, the Lakers are poised to build a system that maximizes their strengths.
Proving His Worth in 2025-26
Before Reaves can cash in on his next contract, he’ll need to prove he’s worth the massive payday. The upcoming season, which kicks off with a preseason game against the Phoenix Suns on October 3, 2025, and the regular season opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, will be pivotal. Reaves will face intense scrutiny as he looks to build on last season’s breakout performance. Can he maintain his efficiency while taking on a larger role? Can he continue to deliver in high-pressure moments? And most importantly, can he solidify his fit alongside Doncic to justify the Lakers’ long-term investment?
If Redick’s comments are any indication, Reaves is well on his way. His offseason transformation and dominance in workouts suggest he’s ready to take the leap from reliable starter to bona fide star. NBA executives’ confidence in his ability to command a $30 million-plus contract further reinforces the belief that Reaves is on the cusp of superstardom.
The Road to a Lakers Dynasty
The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, has made it clear they want Reaves to stay in LA for the long haul. Despite his decision to test free agency, the mutual interest between Reaves and the Lakers suggests a deal will eventually get done. As one NBA executive put it, “The expectation… is that Reaves ultimately will return to Los Angeles.” This alignment of goals—Reaves’ desire to stay and the Lakers’ commitment to building around him and Doncic—sets the stage for a potential dynasty.
Redick’s five-word assertion isn’t just a soundbite; it’s a rallying cry for a franchise ready to reclaim its place atop the NBA. With Reaves leading the charge, a revamped roster, and a visionary coach in Redick, the Lakers are on the verge of something special. As training camp looms and the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Austin Reaves—the player whose grit, growth, and undeniable talent could ignite a new golden era in Los Angeles.