Austin Reaves has his long-term future locked in with the Los Angeles Lakers, however his consideration has already shifted to the larger prize.
The guard lately agreed to a four-year, $185 million most contract to stay in Los Angeles, making certain he and Luka Doncic will proceed main the Lakers’ backcourt for the foreseeable future. Reasonably than specializing in the monetary reward, Reaves made it clear that bringing one other championship to the franchise is what issues most, based on Dan Woike of The Athletic.
“It’s going to be enjoyable. And like I mentioned, profitable a championship is the principle objective,” Reaves mentioned. “And I really feel like, you recognize, with me and Luka, that’s an ideal beginning piece to compete. And once we put a roster collectively that may go compete, I really feel like profitable a championship will principally solidify all the things that I need and all the things that the Lakers need.
“And it sort of meets the widespread objective of why they gave me the cash they did.”
The brand new deal reportedly begins with a $41.2 million wage, a determine that instantly sparked debate across the league about whether or not Reaves is price a most contract.
With that wage comes heightened expectations, and the Lakers will now anticipate the previous undrafted guard to proceed creating into one of many NBA’s premier backcourt gamers.
Los Angeles additionally wasted little time bettering the roster round its stars.
The entrance workplace added middle Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz earlier than strengthening its depth by means of the additions of Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton.
These strikes got here after the Lakers reportedly explored contingency plans in case Reaves departed in free company. Los Angeles held discussions with the Miami Warmth involving Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware earlier than Reaves agreed to his new contract.
Finally, these conversations turned pointless as soon as Reaves dedicated to staying in Los Angeles.
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