Austin Reaves is entering a new era with the Los Angeles Lakers.
After signing a four-year, $180 million contract, with the fourth season structured as a player option, Reaves officially became one of the franchise’s cornerstones for the future. According to reports, the deal could have been worth $185 million, but the 27-year-old guard agreed to take $5 million less to give the Lakers additional financial flexibility.
Speaking to reporters after putting pen to paper, Reaves addressed several topics, including the departure of LeBron James and his close relationship with teammate Luka Doncic.
“Starting a season without LeBron will be different”
For the first time since joining the NBA, Reaves will begin a season without LeBron James as his teammate, and he admitted the adjustment will take some time.
“I don’t know if I’ve honestly processed it yet. I was thinking about it last night when I got here. Starting a season without him on the team is going to be different for me. That’s kind of all I’ve ever known. He’s always been around, joking, acting like he’s 15 years old. But that’s his decision. Like I said in Tahoe, and every other time I’ve been asked about it, I’ve got nothing but love and respect for him. Now let’s go play some golf soon.”
Reaves entered the league in 2021 and spent every one of his NBA seasons alongside James, making this the first major roster transition of his career.
Luka Doncic is “one of my best friends”
Reaves also spoke about Luka Doncic, who is expected to lead the Lakers into their new chapter following James’ departure.
The two have quickly developed a strong friendship off the court, something Reaves says extends far beyond basketball.
“He’s one of my best friends on this planet,” Reaves said of Doncic. “I talk to him almost every single day. He sends me videos of his golf swing and asks me what he can do to get better and I tell him I’m not a coach.”
The chemistry between Reaves and Doncic will be one of the biggest storylines for the Lakers heading into the new season as the franchise builds around its new backcourt.
Reaves rewarded after a career-best season
The new contract comes after the best season of Reaves’ NBA career.
He appeared in 51 games during the 2025/26 campaign, averaging 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds, establishing himself as one of the league’s most productive guards.
With LeBron James gone and Luka Doncic now leading the franchise, the Lakers are entering a new era – and Austin Reaves is expected to play a central role in it.
