Austin Reaves Joins NBA Contract Year All-Stars

Austin Reaves has recently been spotlighted as one of the notable players in the NBA's contract year, earning him a spot on ESPN's NBA Contract Year All-Stars list. According to ESPN, Reaves has emerged as a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, particularly in the absence of LeBron James and Luka Doncic due to injuries. With a remarkable scoring average of 31.1 points per game and 9.3 assists, Reaves is currently ranked sixth in the league for points per game. His performance has notably improved from last season, where he averaged 20.2 points, showcasing his growth as a player. Furthermore, Reaves made history by becoming the fourth undrafted player in the shot-clock era to record a 50-point game, which he achieved on October 26 against the Sacramento Kings. In addition to his scoring, his playmaking abilities have also shone through, as he averaged 10 assists in games without Doncic, including a career-high of 16 assists in one match.

Reaves is in a unique position regarding his contract status. Currently, he has a player option worth $14.9 million for the 2026 season. However, due to NBA rules that limit the Lakers' ability to extend him, it is highly anticipated that he will decline this option to enter unrestricted free agency. If he does so, he could sign a lucrative contract worth up to five years and $241 million with the Lakers or explore offers from other teams with significant cap space, such as the Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, Utah Jazz, and Washington Wizards, who are projected to have at least $40 million available next summer. This financial potential highlights the significance of Reaves' current performance in shaping his future earnings.

Despite the competitive landscape of the NBA, Reaves' emergence as a top player in a contract year emphasizes the increasing talent pool within the league. His ability to step up as a second option for the Lakers has not only benefited his team but has also placed him in a favorable position as he prepares for potential contract negotiations. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Reaves to see if he can maintain this outstanding performance and maximize his value heading into free agency. ESPN's Bobby Marks notes that while the Lakers could potentially offer him an extension, the most likely scenario is that Reaves will test the market, seeking a deal that reflects his significant contributions on the court. With the league's landscape continually evolving, Reaves' case serves as a reminder of the critical nature of contract years and the opportunities they present for players in the NBA.