Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers guard, has declined a four-year contract extension worth $89.2 million, according to sources cited by The Athletic’s Dan Woike. This move comes despite Reaves’ desire to remain with the team long-term, as reported earlier this month at his annual basketball camp.
Reaves is expected to play out the final season of his current deal and become an unrestricted free agent next summer. He can then explore bigger paydays elsewhere. The decision does not reflect a strained relationship with the organization, but rather Reaves’ focus on securing better compensation.
The 2022-23 season saw Reaves achieve a career-high in scoring, averaging 20.2 points per game on 46% shooting from the field in 73 games. He is one of the most sought-after players in trade rumors this offseason, with the Lakers aiming to build a championship-contending roster around LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Source: https://www.si.com/nba/austin-reaves-declines-max-contract-extension-with-lakers-report