LA Lakers guard Austin Reaves has formally declined his $15 million participant choice for the 2026–27 NBA season, coming into free company this summer time. Earlier this season, he additionally turned down an $89 million contract extension, signaling his intent to barter a possible five-year, $241 million max take care of the Lakers.
Based on these particulars, Reaves needs to be a long-time Laker, however that does not imply that he’ll completely shut the doorways of alternatives. One of the groups in him is the Utah Jazz.
Reaves’ Breakout Season
Reaves has established himself as a bona fide star, averaging 23.5 factors, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per sport, whereas taking pictures 37% from three-point vary.
According to BBall Rumors, his versatile play and scoring potential make him one of the vital coveted free brokers this offseason. If he improves his protection throughout transitions, he will be probably the greatest guards in the course of the playoffs.
Reaves Under Jazz’s Radar
The Utah Jazz have reportedly proven sturdy curiosity, hoping to pair him with Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, and final yr’s fifth general decide Ace Bailey to strengthen their Western Conference rivalry.
Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus famous, “I’ve heard that the Utah Jazz like Austin Reaves. I don’t think that’s a shock, but I’ve heard that that’s one of the teams that’s interested in Austin Reaves.”
The second followers realized about this, they already knew that Reaves can be an immediate magnet for the opposite groups. He might match effectively in virtually all groups due to his dimension and taking pictures.
Lakers’ Advantage
Despite league-wide curiosity, the Lakers stay a compelling choice. Los Angeles can provide a max contract, and Reaves’ established chemistry with the workforce positions him for continued development and championship rivalry.
For the Jazz to get Reaves, it is going to include an enormous threat. Knowing that the Lakers will not enable Reaves to stray simply, the very best factor they’ll provide is a candy max deal for the younger gunner.
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