Austin Reaves’ strong play a double-edged sword for Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers opted not to make many big moves this offseason.

They might be bracing for the post-LeBron James days, which makes perfect sense, all things considered. However, even if they have some bucks to spare, that might not be enough for them to keep their third star.

Austin Reaves just gave everyone a reminder of the type of player he can be with a bigger role, and his price might only go up after Sunday night's explosion.

Lakers may not be able to afford Austin Reaves

With LeBron and Luka Doncic out, Reaves took matters into his own hands to take down the Sacramento Kings 127-120.

The former undrafted free agent exploded for a career-high 51 points, adding 11 rebounds, nine assists, six three-pointers and a couple of steals in 39 minutes.

He was already a strong candidate to opt out of his contract and test free agency after this season, and that type of performance will only help his camp make bigger financial demands.

He's currently making roughly $13.9 million and is slated to make $14.8 million next season. His four-year, $53 million contract extension was one of the biggest bargains in the league at the time, and that has only become more true as the deal progresses.

Of course, the Lakers will need him to keep this up, as Doncic will be out with a lower-leg injury for at least a week, and James is still out with a sciatica injury.

Ironically, though, the better he plays, the more likely he will be to leave.