The Los Angeles Lakers are at a crossroads with their young star, Austin Reaves, whose future with the franchise has sparked intense speculation. As a key piece in the Lakers’ rotation and a rising talent alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Reaves has proven his worth. However, with only two years left on his contract, including a $14.9 million player option in the final year, the guard appears significantly undervalued. Rumors suggest Reaves is aware of his market value and may decline his player option in 2026 to pursue a deal worth approximately $30 million annually. This looming decision forces the Lakers to confront a critical question: retain their homegrown star or trade him to avoid losing him for nothing in free agency?
The Proposed Trade: A Blockbuster Deal with Sacramento
To mitigate the risk of Reaves walking away in free agency, a bold trade proposal has surfaced that could reshape the Lakers’ roster while addressing Sacramento’s needs. The proposed deal is as follows:
Los Angeles Lakers Receive:
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Keegan Murray
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2027 First-Round Pick
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2029 First-Round Pick
Sacramento Kings Receive:
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Austin Reaves
This trade would be a preemptive strike by the Lakers to secure valuable assets before Reaves potentially departs. Let’s break down why this deal could make sense for both franchises, as well as the arguments for the Lakers to hold onto their young star.
Why the Lakers Might Consider This Trade
Trading Austin Reaves, a 27-year-old guard with a versatile offensive skill set, would be a tough pill to swallow for Lakers fans. Reaves has blossomed into a reliable third option behind James and Doncic, averaging 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game in the 2024-25 season, with shooting splits of 46.0% from the field and 37.7% from three. His ability to create shots, facilitate as a secondary playmaker, and thrive in high-pressure situations makes him a cornerstone of the Lakers’ current success.
However, the return in this trade could address critical roster needs and align with the Lakers’ long-term financial strategy. Keegan Murray, a 25-year-old forward from the Sacramento Kings, is a highly coveted 3-and-D wing—a archetype that is invaluable in today’s NBA. Last season, Murray averaged 12.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game, shooting 44.4% from the field, 34.3% from three, and 83.3% from the free-throw line. While his three-point efficiency dipped slightly, pairing him with a playmaker like Doncic could unlock his potential in a system that generates more open looks. Murray’s defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions would bolster the Lakers’ wing depth, a critical need in a league dominated by dynamic forwards.
Beyond Murray, the inclusion of two first-round picks (2027 and 2029) is a significant haul for the Lakers. Over the past few seasons, the Lakers have depleted their draft capital to build a championship-caliber roster around James and Doncic. These picks would replenish their assets, providing flexibility to either draft young talent or package them in future trades. With the Lakers planning to keep cap space open for major signings starting next summer, Murray’s expiring contract aligns with their financial goals, offering a cost-controlled asset who could thrive in Los Angeles.
Why Sacramento Needs Austin Reaves
For the Sacramento Kings, acquiring Reaves could be a game-changer. The Kings have historically boasted talented point guards, from Tyrese Haliburton to De’Aaron Fox, but Fox’s departure has left a void in their backcourt, particularly in playmaking. With stars like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis already on the roster, Sacramento needs a reliable floor general to tie their offense together. Reaves fits the bill perfectly.
Reaves’ ability to handle the ball, create his own shot, and facilitate for others makes him an ideal fit alongside Sacramento’s high-octane offense. His 2024-25 performance as a tertiary option with the Lakers suggests he could take on an even larger role with the Kings, potentially elevating his production as a primary or secondary scoring option. Additionally, Sacramento’s recent moves—adding Dennis Schroder and pursuing Russell Westbrook—signal their intent to build a competitive backcourt. Reaves would complement this group, providing versatility and youth to a team aiming to contend in the Western Conference.
The Kings’ rumored interest in Jonathan Kuminga further underscores their ambition to retool their roster. While that deal remains unlikely, adding Reaves could serve as a cornerstone move to solidify their backcourt and enhance their playoff aspirations.
The Case for Keeping Reaves in Los Angeles
Despite the merits of the proposed trade, the Lakers have compelling reasons to retain Austin Reaves. At 27, he has shown unwavering loyalty to the franchise, consistently delivering in clutch moments and proving his value as a core piece. His growth into a 20-point-per-game scorer and reliable playmaker makes him a perfect complement to Doncic, especially as the Lakers transition into a post-LeBron era. With James’ contract set to expire soon, the Lakers will have significant cap spaceRobinhood, opening the door to re-sign Reaves to a lucrative extension next summer.
Reaves’ on-court impact extends beyond his stats. His work ethic, basketball IQ, and ability to perform under pressure have endeared him to the Lakers’ fanbase and coaching staff. Losing him could disrupt the team’s chemistry and long-term potential, particularly if Murray fails to match his production.
The Financial and Strategic Dilemma
The Lakers’ financial situation adds another layer of complexity. Reaves’ $14.9 million player option is a bargain for his production, but his expected pursuit of a $30 million annual deal in 2026 could strain the Lakers’ cap space. However, with expiring contracts like LeBron James’ coming off the books, the Lakers may have the flexibility to offer Reaves a market-value extension while still pursuing other free agents. Trading him now could be a proactive move to avoid losing him for nothing, but it risks sacrificing a proven star for unproven assets.
Conclusion: A Heartbreaking Decision Looms
The proposed trade with Sacramento offers the Lakers a chance to address their wing depth and rebuild their draft capital while securing value for Reaves before his potential free agency departure. Keegan Murray and two first-round picks represent a strong return, but parting ways with a fan favorite and a rising star like Reaves would be a gut punch for the franchise. On the other hand, Sacramento stands to gain a versatile playmaker who could elevate their playoff hopes, filling a critical roster gap.
Ultimately, the Lakers must weigh the immediate benefits of the trade against Reaves’ long-term value as a cornerstone of their future. Retaining him could solidify a new era alongside Doncic, but the risk of losing him without compensation looms large. As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Purple and Gold face a heartbreaking decision that could shape the franchise for years to come.