According to a recent report by NBA Insider Jovan Buha for The Athletic, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed interest in trading their young talent, Austin Reaves. Buha stated that the Lakers are unwilling to trade the 26-year-old shooting guard unless it’s for an All-Star-level player. He also mentioned that the Lakers will not consider trading Reaves for a potential deal involving Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray at the deadline.
“The Lakers, by all indications, are not trying to trade Austin Reaves unless it is an All-Star-level guy. … Even then, it seems like it’s a legit All-Star, not just a fringe All-Star type. They did not want to include him in a potential trade for Dejounte Murray at the deadline,” Jovan Buha mentioned in his latest podcast on The Athletic. The discussion starts at the 21:15 mark.
Also Read: NBA Draft 2024: Potential Los Angeles Lakers’ Targets and Trade Scenarios with Pick No. 17
Lakers’ $54 Million Deal with Reaves Deemed Best Value
The Lakers have acquired many young talents in recent years, and Austin Reaves is one of the most beneficial young talents for the team. Reaves declined to be selected 42nd overall by the Detroit Pistons and went undrafted in the 2021 NBA draft. Later, he signed a significant contract with the Lakers in August 2021. In July, Reaves resigned from the deal with the Lakers for a $54 million contract, which is considered one of the best-value deals.
Reaves has played consistently well throughout the 2023-24 season, delivering back-to-back amazing performances. He has been a critical player for the Lakers at times, including hitting an amazing half-court buzzer-beater shot against the Golden State Warriors. According to StatMuse, The 26-year-old Lakers guard averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds in 82 games this season.
During an interview with the Lakers, new head coach JJ Redick revealed his favorite player to monitor in the upcoming season. He also mentioned that he couldn’t wait to coach his favorite player on the team.
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