Lakers Reportedly Weigh Austin Reaves Trade Amid Center Search

The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical offseason decision regarding Austin Reaves, their emerging star guard who averaged 20.2 points per game in the 2024-25 season. While Reaves has become a key piece alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, the Lakers' biggest roster need is at the center position, prompting trade rumors involving Reaves to acquire promising big men like Jalen Duren. Analysts and insiders, including CBS Sports' Robby Kalland, warn against trading Reaves due to his unique ability as a secondary on-ball creator and his cost-effective production relative to his salary. However, Reaves is expected to decline his player option for the 2026-27 season in pursuit of a significantly larger contract, which complicates the Lakers' long-term plans. Shannon Sharpe advocates trading Reaves to maximize value while the Lakers' championship window with aging stars remains open, suggesting the need for a traditional center to better support Doncic and James. Ultimately, the Lakers must weigh the short-term benefits of retaining Reaves against the strategic necessity of acquiring frontcourt help to remain competitive.