Panalobet/News/The Lakers’ Tough Decision on Austin Reaves: To Trade or Not to Trade?Austin Reaves’ breakout season has presented the Los Angeles Lakers with a dilemma — one that could shape the team’s future. As the purple-and-gold look to build around new franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić, the question looms large: should they trade Reaves while his value is at its peak? So, what’s the right move for Los Angeles? Here’s Panalobet’s take on the dilemma surrounding Austin Reaves.
From Undrafted to Unstoppable
Reaves’ rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Once an undrafted underdog, he fought his way onto the Lakers roster and steadily evolved into one of the NBA’s most reliable and versatile guards. His story is a blueprint for perseverance — from being overlooked by every team on draft night to becoming a key player for one of the league’s most storied franchises.
Reaves wasn’t an overnight sensation. His college career at Wichita State and Oklahoma was a steady climb rather than a meteoric rise. But by his senior year, he was averaging 18.3 points, 5 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game, proving he had the skill and poise to lead an offense.
A Steady Climb in the NBA
In his rookie season, Reaves averaged 7.3 points — modest numbers, but impressive for an undrafted player. Each season since, his production has increased: 13 points per game in his sophomore campaign, 16 the following year, and now an incredible 20.2 points per game in 2024–25.
This season, Reaves has taken another leap, averaging 34.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 10 assists through the early stretch — numbers worthy of an All-Star conversation. His shooting, once a weakness, has become a strength, improving from 31% from three as a rookie to over 37% last season.
More than the stats, it’s his basketball IQ that stands out. Reaves reads defenses, controls tempo, and makes smarter decisions each year. His playmaking, confidence, and poise have turned him into a complete, all-around guard.
But Is He the Right Fit for Luka Dončić’s Lakers?
Despite his growth, there’s growing concern that Reaves may not be the perfect long-term fit alongside Luka Dončić. The Lakers’ future clearly revolves around the Slovenian superstar, and their roster construction, play style, and long-term strategy all point to building around Luka’s unique skill set.
The issue? Both Luka and Reaves excel when they control the ball. They thrive in pick-and-roll situations and orchestrate the offense in similar ways. Having two ball-dominant guards can sometimes hinder spacing and rhythm — particularly when neither is a lockdown defender.
Reaves is an incredible talent, but he might not complement Luka in the way the Lakers need if they hope to contend for a championship.
The Case for Trading Reaves
That brings us to the big question — should the Lakers trade Austin Reaves?
With his market value at an all-time high, the timing might be ideal. A trade could bring in assets better suited to play off Luka — such as a defensive-minded wing, a versatile big, or additional shooters who thrive without the ball.
Realistically, the Lakers are not yet championship-ready. The roster lacks depth, defensive balance, and a clear secondary playmaker to support Luka. Trading Reaves could help the front office address those weaknesses and maximize the “Luka Era.”
It’s a painful possibility, especially given how beloved Reaves is among fans. He embodies the grit and underdog spirit that resonates in Los Angeles. But championship aspirations often demand difficult choices — and the Lakers’ priority now must be long-term fit, not sentiment.
What’s Best for Reaves Himself?
Interestingly, a trade might not only benefit the Lakers — it could also help Reaves. In another system, he could flourish as a primary playmaker and first scoring option, something that’s no longer possible in Los Angeles with Luka (and LeBron James, when healthy) dominating possessions.
At 26, Reaves is entering his prime. A move to a team where he’s featured as the offensive centerpiece might allow him to fully unlock his potential. For the Lakers, it would free up roster flexibility and allow them to surround Luka with players who better complement his game.
A Harsh but Necessary Decision
The Lakers now stand at a crossroads. Trading Reaves would be a difficult emotional decision — but perhaps the most practical one for the franchise’s future.
As LeBron James nears the end of his legendary career, the team’s identity must shift fully toward Luka Dončić. And while Austin Reaves’ journey from undrafted to indispensable has been inspiring, his skill overlap with Luka might prevent the Lakers from reaching their full potential.
Sometimes, the toughest moves are the right ones.
Austin Reaves has earned the respect of fans and teammates alike, but the Lakers’ focus is now on maximizing Luka’s prime years. Trading Reaves could be the key to unlocking that next championship window — a move that benefits both sides in the long run.
What’s next for Austin Reaves and the Lakers? Find out with Panalobet — and bet on your favorite NBA team today!
