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Lakers Battle Spurs for Austin Reaves Amid Free Agency Drama

9/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers compete with the San Antonio Spurs to retain guard Austin Reaves in the 2026 free agency.
Reaves declined a four-year, $89 million extension and is likely to opt out of his $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season.
He is projected to earn between $30 million and $35 million annually.
Concerns about his defensive skills alongside Luka Doncic may influence the Lakers' decisions.
The Lakers aim to keep Reaves while balancing his contract with their championship aspirations.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers compete with the San Antonio Spurs to retain guard Austin Reaves in the 2026 free agency.
Reaves declined a four-year, $89 million extension and is likely to opt out of his $14.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season.
He is projected to earn between $30 million and $35 million annually.
Concerns about his defensive skills alongside Luka Doncic may influence the Lakers' decisions.
The Lakers aim to keep Reaves while balancing his contract with their championship aspirations.