Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves could be a hot commodity this summer after a breakout season in 2022-23.
A highly coachable combo guard with an aggressive approach, Reaves impressed even more during the 2023 NBA Playoffs while averaging 16.9 points and 4.6 assists per game during the postseason. Even in the Western Conference Finals, Reaves excelled while his backcourt mates struggled, averaging 21.3 points and 5.3 assists per game.
With that in mind, multiple teams rightly have their eyes trained on Reaves ahead of free agency, including the San Antonio Spurs (h/t The Athletic's Jovan Buha on The HoopsHype Podcast with Michael Scotto).
“I think the Lakers are going to retain him. Obviously, their preference would be to sign him to the four-year, $54 million deal. I’ve heard that there are going to be multiple suitors out there in talking with people around the league. You mentioned Orlando and Houston. I’ve heard San Antonio could be a dark horse team that will try to poach Austin from the Lakers.”
The Spurs have multiple wings on their roster that they value, such as Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell and Malaki Branham. However, none have proven themselves in a playoff setting like Reaves has, enhancing his value to their organization.
Furthermore, with Reaves proving himself capable of being a facilitator at 6-foot-5, San Antonio could have Reaves play a variety of roles along the perimeter. The fact that he will do everything possible to fulfill the wishes of the coaching staff, fitting the Spurs culture to a tee, is just icing on the cake.
As is keeping Reaves out of the hands of the Lakers. Especially if the Spurs believe that they can return to their status a playoff team in the near future.
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