Austin Reaves Gets Closer To Swapping Lakers For Western Rival

Even now, Reaves admits the Lakers’ offer stuns him.

“Still to this day, I sit there and think about, relative to any life, that is a lot of money — a lot, a lot, a lot of money,” Reaves says. “It’s way more money than if you would’ve ever had. … If you told me when I was in 10th grade … it’s way more money than I thought was ever possible.”

But league insiders expect his market to explode. “League sources who expect Reaves to earn more than $35 million a year on his next deal, with sources from two teams (neither being the Lakers) speculating that he could command more than $40 million a year,” The Athletic’s Dan Woike reveals.

Unrestricted free agency looms in 2026. Reaves holds a $14.8 million player option but almost certainly declines it. His four-year, $53.8 million deal already underscores how undervalued he is.

A Crucial Season

Reaves enters training camp carrying both pressure and opportunity. Last season he averaged at least 20 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. Only 12 other players match that output.

But his poor series against Minnesota, played through a painful toe injury, raises doubts. Critics want change. Robert Horry even suggested on the “Big Shot Bob” podcast that Reaves mirrors Luka Dončić too closely, urging the Lakers to consider a sign-and-trade.

That’s where the Austin Reaves–Jazz connection gains steam.

Utah’s Complicated Future

Walker Kessler’s contract situation opens the door. The Utah big man is frustrated after failing to land a rookie extension.

Tony Jones of The Athletic reported: “The Utah Jazz and Walker Kessler will not reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension, league sources tell The Athletic, which clears the way for the starting center to reach restricted free agency next summer.”

Kessler has emerged as an elite rim protector, averaging 9.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks early in his career. Utah still views him as a cornerstone, but financial pressure builds. Multiple extension-eligible players squeeze the Jazz cap sheet starting in 2026.

Recent reports reveal the Lakers and Jazz already discussed a framework involving both players. The Jazz are pressing Los Angeles to include Reaves and two first-round picks in a package for Kessler. The Lakers balk at the steep price, but the cost should drop if L.A. offers distant, unprotected picks with swap rights.

If Austin Reaves hits the market, the Lakers and Jazz collide in negotiations. With over $172 million projected cap holds on the books, the Lakers could put an offer sheet that’s too steep for a selling Utah team. Utah, meanwhile, may gamble big on a guard who brings shot creation and star power.

Reaves Keeps His Options Open

Through all the speculation, Reaves insists loyalty still matters.

“I want to be in L.A. I want to continue to play Virginia Country Club on off days. It’s not like we’re trying to just whack ’em over the head for more money than what I deserve. We just want to get what we feel like I’ve put the work in to get,” Reaves says.

Still, the Austin Reaves–Jazz rumors don’t fade. For now, his bet on himself continues. This season decides whether he remains a Laker—or if a new chapter begins in Utah. In Utah, he will get a legitimate shot at beconing an All-Star.