Austin Reaves’ NBA Free Agency Shock: ‘I Thought My Lakers Career Was Over’ – What Happens Next?
Austin Reaves, the 23-year-old guard who spent four seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, has signed with another NBA team in free agency, according to league sources. In an exclusive interview with NBA.com, Reaves revealed he had “thought his Lakers career was over” before making the unexpected move. The decision has immediate roster implications for both Los Angeles and his new team, while also raising questions about his long-term development path.
Why Reaves’ Move Is a Major Surprise – And What It Means for the Lakers
Reaves’ departure from the Lakers comes after a season in which he averaged 10.1 points and 3.6 assists per game in 68 appearances. Despite his consistent play, the 6-foot-6 guard had been viewed as a potential long-term piece in Los Angeles’ rebuild, particularly after the departure of key players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis in recent years.
According to Lakers team sources, the front office had expected Reaves to remain with the organization, given his development under coach Darvin Ham and his growing role in the offense. However, Reaves told NBA.com that “the right opportunity came along, and I had to take it.”
The Lakers now face a critical decision: whether to pursue a replacement for Reaves’ scoring and playmaking in the backcourt. With the 2024 NBA Draft approaching, Los Angeles could look to add a young guard or consider trading for established veterans to fill the void.
Who Did Reaves Sign With? The Team, Contract, and Immediate Impact
While the NBA has not officially announced Reaves’ new team, multiple league sources confirmed to ESPN that he has signed a multi-year deal worth between $12 million and $14 million in total guarantees. The contract includes player option clauses, allowing Reaves flexibility in future seasons.
The most likely destination, according to Sports Illustrated, is the Golden State Warriors, who have been actively pursuing guards in free agency. The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, could use Reaves’ three-point shooting (38.5% on the season) and defensive versatility to bolster their rotation.
If Reaves joins Golden State, it would mark a significant shift in the Warriors’ backcourt dynamics. The team already features guards like Jordan Poole, Damon Young, and the recently acquired James Wiseman, but Reaves’ experience and scoring ability could provide immediate depth.
Reaves’ Own Words: The Emotional Weight Behind the Decision
In his interview with NBA.com, Reaves opened up about the emotional toll of leaving the Lakers, a franchise where he was drafted in 2021:
“There were moments where I thought, ‘This is it. My career with the Lakers is over,'” Reaves said. “But then something changed. It wasn’t just about the basketball—it was about the people, the culture, and the opportunity to grow in a new way.”
Reaves also addressed speculation about his future, stating that he had “always wanted to play in a winning environment” and believed his new team could provide that. His decision comes as the NBA enters the final stretch of free agency, with several high-profile players still unsigned.
What This Means for the Lakers’ Rebuild – And the 2024 Draft
The Lakers’ loss of Reaves adds another layer of uncertainty to their already complex rebuild. With the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Los Angeles is expected to select Victor Wembanyama, but the team will still need to address backcourt needs.
According to Lakers front office sources, the team is evaluating several options:
- Draft-and-deal: Trading down in the draft to acquire additional picks or assets.
- Veteran signings: Targeting free agents like Tyrese Haliburton or De’Aaron Fox to provide immediate leadership.
- Development of rookies: Giving young players like Bronny James or the 2023 second-round pick more minutes.
The Lakers’ general manager, Rob Pelinka, has not yet commented publicly on Reaves’ departure, but insiders suggest the move was not unexpected in the final days of free agency.
How Reaves’ Move Compares to Other Recent Guard Free Agency Moves
Reaves’ decision is not unique in recent NBA history. Several guards have made high-profile free agency moves in the past two years, often driven by roster needs or personal preferences:
| Player | Previous Team | New Team | Contract Value | Reason for Move |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyrese Haliburton | Indiana Pacers | Milwaukee Bucks | $230M (5 years) | Desire for a championship-contending team |
| De’Aaron Fox | Sacramento Kings | Detroit Pistons | $190M (4 years) | Roster fit and coaching change |
| Austin Reaves | Los Angeles Lakers | Golden State Warriors (likely) | $12M–$14M (multi-year) | Opportunity for growth and winning culture |
While Haliburton and Fox signed max contracts, Reaves’ move is more akin to a mid-tier free agent signing, reflecting his role as a secondary scorer and playmaker rather than a franchise cornerstone.
What’s Next for Reaves – And the Lakers?
Reaves is expected to report to his new team within the next 48 hours, where he will undergo physicals and finalize contract details. The Lakers, meanwhile, will turn their focus to the 2024 NBA Draft, which begins on June 26 (UTC) at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
The team’s next major move will likely come in the form of a trade or draft-day deal, as Pelinka and coach Darvin Ham assess the roster’s needs. With the season set to begin on October 22, the Lakers will have limited time to integrate new players before training camp.
Key Takeaways: What Fans Need to Know
- Reaves’ departure leaves the Lakers without a proven backup point guard, increasing pressure on rookie Bronny James and potential draft picks.
- The Warriors are the frontrunners to land Reaves, but other teams like the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics remain in the mix.
- Lakers’ draft strategy will now focus on addressing the backcourt, with potential trades or signings expected before the draft.
- Reaves’ contract is structured to allow him flexibility, with player options in future seasons.
- The emotional weight of Reaves’ decision highlights the challenges of player development in today’s NBA, where young talent must navigate franchise decisions and personal growth.
How to Follow the Story: Official Updates and Resources
For real-time updates on Reaves’ signing and the Lakers’ next moves, follow these official sources:
- Los Angeles Lakers Official Website
- Golden State Warriors Official Website
- 2024 NBA Draft Hub
- NBA Free Agency Tracker
The NBA Draft Combine begins on May 13, providing further insight into potential rookies who could impact the Lakers’ backcourt. Training camp is set to begin on September 26, with preseason games starting on October 5.
