The Los Angeles Lakers are off to an 8-3 start and look more connected than ever. A big reason for their early success is Austin Reaves, who has been on an absolute tear to open the season. His first five games were a historic stretch that no one else in NBA history has ever accomplished.
“34.2 PPG. 10.0 APG. 1.8 SPG. 52.5 FG%. 38.5 3P%. 89.7 FT%. That's what the Lakers' Austin Reaves is averaging in 5 games this season. No one else in NBA history has put up those numbers or better over any 5-game span in a single season,” Opta Stats posted.
Because of this incredible five-game run, Reaves has positioned himself for a major payday — one that could be costly for the Lakers.
“Because NBA rules restrict the Lakers from extending Reaves up to 140% of the average player (four-years, $87.4 million with a starting salary of $19.5 million next season), it is highly unlikely he will sign a new contract prior to June 30. The more likely scenario is for Reaves to decline his player option and become an unrestricted free agent,” ESPN’s Bobby Marks wrote. “If he does, Reaves will be eligible to sign for up to five-years, $241 million with the Lakers.”
There have been concerns that Reaves could leave for a bigger payday, but his latest comments suggest he intends to stay in Los Angeles no matter what.
“I try not to think about it. Honestly. I've said it a million times. I want to be in L.A. I love it," Reaves told ESPN. "Even though the other extension was turned down, that doesn't mean that I'm trying to go get a f---ing gigantic number that don't make sense. I want to be here, I want to win. I want to do everything that can help this organization be better. So I don't try to think about those things."
Those comments make it clear that Reaves is a Laker through and through. He and LeBron James have formed one of the most productive duos in the league, and it seems likely he’ll be sticking around for the long haul.
Reaves isn’t chasing money — he just wants to stay home in Los Angeles. His upcoming contract situation will certainly be one to watch as the offseason approaches.