Austin Reaves Reflects on LeBron James’ Departure and His New Role with the Lakers

When Austin Reaves learned that LeBron James would not return to the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2026-27 season, he was on a golf course. Reaves texted James, “I texted him and told him I was having a great day on the golf course until he ruined it,” then followed the joke with a heartfelt farewell. He later added, “Thank you for everything. See you on the golf course soon brother.”

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Reaves entered the league as an undrafted free agent for the 2021-22 season and quickly formed a close bond with James, who advocated for him in practice and gave him early playing time. Over five seasons the two developed on-court chemistry and off-court friendship, often playing golf together after James took up the sport in 2023. Reaves has repeatedly credited James with boosting his confidence, saying the veteran “has given me confidence every single day.”

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In June 2026 Reaves secured a four-year, $185 million max contract, the largest ever for an undrafted player. The deal reflects his breakout 2025-26 season, during which he posted career-high averages of 23.3 points, 5.5 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. Those numbers positioned him as a primary scoring option for the Lakers, especially when James was sidelined by injury.

Bleacher Report

With James departing, Reaves anticipates a leadership role on a roster that added center Walker Kessler, guard Quentin Grimes, forward Sandro Mamukelashvili, guard Collin Sexton and acquired Walker Kessler via a sign-and-trade. He told the California Post, “I think we have an opportunity to compete, and that’s what we’re going to be looking to do.” Reaves also expressed optimism about continuing his friendship with James off the court, noting, “There’s nothing but love and respect. When he comes to LA, I need to see him out on the golf course.”

Reno Gazette Journal

Lakers president Rob Pelinka confirmed the franchise’s commitment to Reaves, describing the contract as “a clear signal that we are building around him and Luka Doncic.” The front office highlighted the roster overhaul as a means to “retool” after a second-round playoff exit to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Austin Reaves admits LeBron James ‘ruined’ his day after Lakers exit

Public criticism of James’ departure has focused on the Lakers’ roster construction rather than Reaves’ response. No notable dissenting commentary directly addresses Reaves’ statements or his new contract.

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All sources report the same text message wording and contract details; no discrepancies were identified. However, the exact timeline of Reaves’ contract signing relative to James’ announcement varies slightly across reports, with some indicating the deal was finalized “last month” and others noting a June 24 signing date.

ESPN

• “Reaves revealed his first text message to James about his departure, via the New York Post: “I texted him and told him I was having a great day on the golf course until he ruined it.” — Austin Reaves

Heavy

• “Thank you for everything. See you on the golf course soon brother.” — Austin Reaves

ESPN

• “There's nothing but love and respect.” — Austin Reaves

Bleacher Report

• “He's taught me a lot. I owe him a lot from my career. Like I said, he's given me confidence every single day,” — Austin Reaves

ESPN

• “I think we have an opportunity to compete, and that’s what we’re going to be looking to do.” — Austin Reaves

Reno Gazette Journal

Reaves’ comments illustrate both gratitude for James’ mentorship and confidence in his own emerging role as a cornerstone of the Lakers’ next chapter.

ESPN