The Los Angeles Lakers operating from Los Angeles, California refuse to negotiate the trade of Austin Reaves. Multiple reports indicate that the Lakers organization stands firm against trading Austin Reaves as part of their attempts to bring De’Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings. Keeping Reaves over pursuing Fox proves to be wiser because of his contribution potential in future Lakers rosters.
The Lakers have identified Austin Reaves as their essential contributor who delivers consistent offense and defensive flexibility and assists play distribution. The breakout season from last year allowed him to maintain success with Team USA during the World Cup tournament before establishing himself as a key player together with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Lakers depend on his basketball versatility since he can operate beyond the arc while controlling the ball and locking down opponents at various spots.
Reaves makes a valuable contribution to the Lakers through his contract worth $53 million over four years since it provides needed financial flexibility under the current salary cap rules. Paying Fox his $30 million annual salary would force the Lakers to chuck multiple assets into the deal along with affecting their plans to implement future moves.
Fox Would Be a Great Fit—But at What Cost?
There is no question that Fox would be a good fit. The 26-year-old point guard is averaging over 25 points per game this season, bringing elite speed and shot creation—areas where the Lakers have struggled. However, acquiring him would likely require the Lakers to include Reaves, multiple draft assets, and potentially another rotation player, significantly weakening their depth.
Moreover, the Kings are in the driver’s seat of a playoff race and are likely in no rush to give up Fox without getting an incredible deal. If the Lakers could move Reaves, Sacramento would likely ask for a contract commitment and even more draft compensation.
While Fox would be an excellent addition, preserving Reaves gives Los Angeles its core of last season but is able to seek needed improvements from other trades. His relationship with James and Davis and his ability to play in multiple roles make him a player the Lakers should keep unless they get a star without giving up Reaves.
